makeing python relaxed.

[kylemacdizzle]

Okay so every python iv had they've all liked to be scratched on there spines and
Sides. When I do it the snake goes to the flow with it.

I was wondering if the snakes actually like it when people do that.

Also, Does it hard or effect the snake when the shed is flakeing or peeling and you
Gently scratch/peel it off?

[thomasK]

Honestly i don't think they 'go to the flow' cause they like it. i think its more of a reaction like: hey somethings touching me. A little bit like when somebody strokes you and you stretch or bend youre spine.
Snakes aren't petting animals.They just tolerate us human beings holding them.
Myself i dont pet my snakes like i do with my dog, when i hold them i just let them do there thing with little corrections when they are going the wrong way

When sheds stuck its best to let them get it off thereselfs. You can always provide a humidity hide to help them with the stuck shed. If they stay on for to long you can always give them with a nice soak and a damp towel to let them crawl trough. I don't think its bad when you peel it off but it won't be good either. Best is to let nature do its thing

[pbjtime8908]

i like to pet mine also and i think he does like it because he just sits there or if he's a little nervous and staying coiled up, it seems to relax him and get him moving around. i know they arent a petting animal but whenever i stop petting him he tries to find the hand i was using to pet him with and wont stop bugging me until i start back up. but as the pet owner im probably just analyzing his behavior to make me happy. i still love the little guy doing it though lol

[el8ch]

Hi Kyle - Welcome to BP.net!

Ball Pythons can stress very easily - The best way to ensure that you have a happy and healthy snake is to ensure that you are keeping proper husbandry and that you are giving your snake a good amount of peace and quiet. It is best not to over-handle, but when you do handle them they will tolerate you for the most part.

Shedding - Why don't you read this article on Bad Sheds --> Bad Shed? No Problem. Assisiting in the shedding process is fine as long as you are taking the appropriate measures when doing so.

All the best.

[kylemacdizzle]

Thanks for the help, ill be useing this form more often.

[el8ch]

Thanks for the help, ill be useing this form more often.

No problem! And great, this forum is a great place to both learn and share.

Cheers.