I really hate to be the one to break it to you, but ball pythons really aren't the kind of pet that you walk around with all day.

They are very shy secretive animals that would much rather be crammed inside a nice warm hiding spot than in your hands.

A big warm mammal (like a person) is a very scary thing to a ball python that instinctually spends it’s life trying to avoid being eaten by big warm things.

Think of them more like fish (pretty to look at, but not a good idea to take them out and pet them) than a hamster or a puppy (warm, cute, cuddly, made for petting).

Ball pythons can actually become quite stressed from being handled which can lead to refusal of food or a host of potential illnesses. Stress has a profound impact on a ball pythons immune system.

Once you're ball python is established in it's new home, set up properly, and eating regularly, it certainly does no harm to take him or her out of their cage for very brief handling session ... the added benefit is a little exercise and a physical assessment of the animal. But taking your ball out and walking around or playing with it for extended periods of time is generally not recommended.

Good luck with your snake!

-adam