Hopefully before you get your snake you will have it's home setup and have established proper husbandry including temps, humidity, and security. On the day you receive your snake you need to take it out carefully and slowly, inspect it's body for any defects(mucus around mouth, kinked body, mites etc). Your heat source(s) need to be off and room temp. Put the snake in it's home and after a couple hours you can begin to heat the tank. For the whole next week do not handle or attempt to feed. Only open the enclosure to mist for humidity if needed. After a week you can offer food. If it eats wait at least another day before beginning short (5-10) minute handling sessions. I hope this helps. And CONGRATULATIONS on joining the BALL PYTHON COMMUNITY!