A Question on Handling

[beaglegod]

I was just wondering, if not handling a snake for a week or so, will set them back at all when it comes to accepting handling.

[JLC]

I suppose it depends on how long you've been handling him to begin with. If it's a very shy snake and you've only had it a short time...it might set him back just a tiny bit. If it's an easy going snake that has been handled for years...he probably wouldn't even notice.

Nahh, I don't think so. In fact, depending on the species less handling is better.

[Marla]

Snakes can definitely be set back when it comes to handling, as can other critters. I'll tell ya, you don't want a big male iguana that's been ignored for a year, except for feeding, running loose in your house. Just keep working with him and have patience and eventually a week won't be long enough to set him back.

True, but a week won't set you back any.

[Marla]

David, he's only had Plissken a few weeks at this point. It could set him back a little, but Paul's done so well so far that I'm sure it won't be a problem.

In that case, if he has only had the snake for 3 weeks, he shouldn't be handling all that much if at all anyways. I honestly don't think not handling any snake for a week will "set you back" at all.

[beaglegod]

Ive had him since feb 5th I usualy handle him on tues and fri nights for 5-10 min. His first week with me he was left alone, and I didnt touch him during the course of his shed. Hes a good feeder thus far hasnt missed a meal, since feb 8th hes eaten every sunday night. I will admit though that one of the reasons Im going to get another snake so soon after getting my BP, is so I can enjoy interaction with them more frequently. A Bp as a first snake requires a great amount of patience because theres a lot of waiting time.

I think you're doing a great job so far! As long as the snake is eating and there are no apparent problems, I think your routine is just fine. And you're right, BPs do take a bit of patience.

[JLC]

I will admit though that one of the reasons Im going to get another snake so soon after getting my BP, is so I can enjoy interaction with them more frequently.

That's an excellent excuse to buy more snakes!