You don't have to have a stick. That's purely optional. As long as he doesn't fall from it repeatedly you should be fine.

As for hides, You've got the low and tight down, but I think it's a bit open in the front. I prefer for them to have a place they can feel completely secure and not exposed at all. It also looks like you need to cool your hot side a bit too. 98 is a bit high.

Nice looking little guy though.