Before I pick my little guy up, I wash my hands then use the same type of hand sanitizer every time so the smell is consistant. The I take the top off which ever hide he's in, and rub his sie a little bit to let him know I'm there. Then I slide my hand under him and pick him up. He rarely balls up, and never tries to nip me. Once he warms up in my hand, he's off to the races.