Is hook training completely necessary

[artgecko]

I use a hook and I'll give an instance that might show you how useful it can be... Both of my boas are very laid back and not aggressive, except at feeding time. When they are in feeding mode, they will strike at the side of the tub / top of the tub when they see motion, even from me, and even with no food present (so basically at night). Normally I do not handle them at night so it's no problem because I avoid it.

However, last night when doing my evening checks, I noticed that my youngest boa had defecated in his cage and it needed to be cleaned. Sure enough, he was in food mode, watching me move around the cage and when my hand went near the latch, he struck. I carefully removed the top of the tub, used the hook and rubbed his neck for apx. 2 seconds and he instantly went out of food mode, went into his hide, and then I was able to pick him up without any striking, put him in a holding container, and clean his cage.

In this situation, the hook kept me from possibly getting bitten and made things less stressful on the boa.

I think sometimes people misconstrue hook training as picking the snake up with the hook.. It is simply used to rub / pet the snake when you first open the cage to wake them up and let them know that they will be handled.. Sort of a method to let them know that you aren't a threat and that you aren't feeding them. I believe that I could care for my snakes without the hook, but I feel that it's a safeguard and makes situations like the one above easier.

Of course, it is your choice and it isn't necessary... Do whatever works for you and the snake. That said, your boa looks great in the pic, but I agree with the other poster that napping with your snake might be a bad idea (people have had them slither off and get coiled in the washing machine, etc. and lost for months).