Use a UTH (Under Tank Heater) with thermostat. I Keep mine at 83-85 degrees with great results. cool side doesn't matter.
I'm in Florida I don't keep an eye on the humidity % when they go into blue I start misting with good results. I would say 50 - 65 % normal 75 - 90% in Blue. As for handling just pick it up if it's flighty try letting him run threw your hands in a small tub twice a week they normally calm down within a few weeks

I just shut the heat off these girls for brumation but that is a different story