As hard as it will be, you have to wait one full week. Seven whole days. After that seven days, offer your new snake food. It should eat for you, this step is very important! If the baby does not eat, wait another five days and try again.

This is going to be a very rough few weeks for you, but believe me it is necessary for your happiness and the snakes. Once the baby eats for you, wait 48 hours after feeding to being handling.

Start out slow, only about 10 minutes at a time. And make sure the baby doesn't get passed around too much. You can handle the baby two or maybe three times in a day, but only for the 10 minutes at a time.

As the baby grows and eats and sheds and does all the normal things a happy healthy snake does, you can increase handling to 15 minutes, then 20. I try not to handle any of mine for longer than 20 minutes. They tend to get restless and antsy after that period, and accidents are more likely to occur.

Best of wishes to you and your family on your future pet. I think you will be very happy.

gale