Hooking It... by Vypyrz.
When using a hook, I find it easier to use smooth, gentle movements. Don't just hook and drag the snake or they will spook and try harder to get away. I use the hook to basically control their head, not to lift the bulk of their body.
-The first thing to do is look at their head. Whichever way their head is facing, that's the hand you want to hold the hook in. This will keep you from having to reach cross-body and getting your arms crossed when lifting them out.
- Next, I take the hook and kind of rotate it to the side so it is essentially laying flat and will slide under the snake easier. Once I get it under them, I just turn it back up so the snake is laying through the hook.
- Before I lift with the hook, I try to position it about 1/4 to 1/3 of the way down their body from the head. That way, if they try to pull their head back and "S" there is less chance of them pulling all the way out of the hook.
- After getting the hook positioned, just lift them up a few inches and reach in with your free hand and lift them out. If they get hissy or flighty, just move the hook around as needed to keep their head away from you. Once you have the bulk of their weight supported by your other hand and arm, then you can put the hook down and handle normally. It won't take long to get the hang of it, and if you have any doubts, you can always practice on a water hose or extension cord...
Reply With Quote