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Correct Handling of Snakes Non-aggressive snakes: These can be picked up by the mid-body and allowed to slide through the hands with minimal restrain. The handler must support the bodyweight completely or vertebral damage can be caused, this is very important with larger snakes and two or more handlers maybe required.
Aggressive snakes: Snakes showing aggression can be removed from their hold area with a ‘snake hook’; place the hook under the mid-body of the snake and lift. They can then be restrained by the handler placing their thumb and finger around the head to prevent it from biting. The rest of the body can be stretched out for examination, with the handlers other hand holding the onto the tail area. Well padded gloves are great for handling small, aggressive snakes, these allow the handler to handle the snake without fear of been bitten.
Do NOT place any snake around your neck, constricting snakes such as Boa Constrictors and Pythons, can quite quickly tighten around, you can also cause vertebral damage to the snake. Always wash hands before and after handling. How often can I handle my Boa? I've seen people who handle their Boas every day without much problem. You'll want to handle it at least once per week to assure that it still recognizes you and doesn't get aggressive. When shouldn't I handle my Boa?
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