With my first Burm some 30 years ago I used a roll of paper towels. With my boas back then I never used anything until I got bit the first time. It was no big deal but I hated it for my snake. Knowing it could do damage to their mouth and lead to worse issues, they to were introduced to a roll of paper towels.
Today I have used a telescopic hook on my new Burm since day one. The hook I have covered with 3 layers of different sized Tygon tubing to make it softer. Even though he has only hissed once and never has struck it, he gets the same greeting from me each time except when feeding.
Not using a conditioning device to get a snake out of feed or defense mode is a choice. I choose to do it for my snakes health more than my health.
Being part of the snake bite club I have no pride in. Yes I will agree it is no big deal and I have no great fear of being bit. It is more of a "I'm not doing my job" as a snake handler to provide the best care, comfort, and sense of security for my snake if it chooses to strike.
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