Hello, everyone!

I am glad to have found a site for herp lovers like myself.

I have a bearded dragon (who is doing really well, btw), and bought my ball python on Monday from a pet store. She is a cutie pie. I believe that her environment is set up pretty well regarding the temperature requirements and hidey holes. I do have some questions I hope that y'all can help me with because I want to do right by her:

1. I have read between 1-2 weeks for the acclimation period. The rep at the store said that she is due for a meal on Thursday although I feel that this is too soon due to having her settle in to her new home. Which is the better timeframe: one or two weeks?

2. I plan on placing her in a seperate enclosure to eat. After eating her meal, how long should I leave her in her temporary enclosure? I realize that they can have G.I. issues from being handled too soon. I have read anywhere from immeidate removal to 30 minutes to an hour. What is best? Also: how should I set up the temporary enclosure solely meant for feeding only? Does it need a hidey hole and water bowl in there as well? Or simply just newspaper?

3. As a first time snake owner, I have been doing well picking her up. However, today, my husband and I switched her from the 10 gallon aquarium which was just inadequate to a nice 20 gallon meant for snakes. I know this stressed her out. Anyway, getting to the point: I was about to pick her up as normal when my husband told me to wait. Her head was cocked back looking up. I paused until she started to extend herself out, picking her up. My question: When I go handle her again, which method is best: Go from the side in a steady manner, and simply pick her up OR pet her for a bit, and slowly pick her up? I always thought that slow was best although, based on the contradicting posts of others on sites, I am confused on this.

4. Snake bites. I realize that one of these days I am going to get bitten. I can deal with this concept as long as I know how to remedy the situation (I am a nurse and very concrete with my thinking). From what I have read, a bp will loosen up its hold as long as a person remains calm. Others say to run cold water over their heads, or, (goodness forbid), pour alcohol onto their eyes (which would make me even more mad if someone did that to me!). What is the best way to loosen their hold on your hand without hurting them?

I have alot of questions, so thanks for investing your time into reading this. I appreciate any constructive, knowledgeable answers that you all may have!

- Kat