How often should you handle a BP

[platinumbp]

I have 3 BP's that are extremely shy, so I only handle them when cleaning, showing them off , or for a general check-up to make sure they are in good shape. The rest of my BP's seem OK with being handled, so they are handled about once a week, sometimes more. As for shortened life span from handling? Well, we have a w/c, rescued rat snake who acts like he's going to die when he's handled, he gets so stressed (Needless to say, he's not handled unless absolutely necessary) With that kind of drama, I wouldn't doubt great stress could be a factor in his shortened life span, poor guy. But, otherwise, I doubt handling has an affect on life span.