I think if your gonna be a snake keeper you have to learn to deal with a possible bite and if so just take it. You have to re-train your mind that its no big deal. When you reach your hand in to pick up your snake, go in with your back of the hand first in a fist position. That way you dont get tagged on your fingers. Then just scoop him up. He will either strike and release or do the typical head shy, turn into a ball thing. Either way dont be scared and show em who is king