Quote Originally Posted by GpBp View Post
Haha, proud to be a member!
I don't handle them at all on Thursday (feeding day), and then of course two days after. I'll remember that!
Do you think you could describe hook training a little bit more in depth? I've heard and read a little bit about it, but I don't know that much. I definitely agree I should get on that! She's not too young to start that, is she?
Thanks again I almost feel guilty now. Forgive me Roe! And yeah, Roe is still so small. 168g as of last week!
I have a 3ft snake hook with a soft handle, but that's for Behira at 7FT too. You can get a big one for life, or get an 18-24 inch one for now.

I got a soft handle, because that's actually what I rub Behira with, not the hook.

Basically, when I open her tank, I show her the hook handle and run her sides a few times. Initially, she tenses up, but then relaxes and now realizes that means no food, and I am going to pick her up.

Sometimes, if still somewhat tense, I show her the handle again and let her smell and taste it again. Then one or two more strokes and she's calm as can be.

I read her body language though. Sometimes, 1-2 rubs and she's good to go, other times a few more.

I never pick her up with the hook, however, I will sometimes put the hook between her head and my hand if I am having trouble reading her body language. I always pick her up with my hand after she's nice and calm.