snake therapy?

LeriHolth · #1 (**permalink**) 10-23-2003, 10:52 PM

Ok. I know the bite was a long time ago now, and the marks can only be seen if you know exactly where to look, but I'm having major issues with handling. I thought I was getting better, but now.... We were feeding last night, and I wouldn't even go near Sam, the 5ft bci that bit me. DH had to move her from the tank to the feeding box, back to the tank when she was done. Moose, our 8ft bci, had two rats to finish off, and DH had already left to go watch the world series at a friends house when it was time to put her away, so I did it. I thought I was going to die of fright. She's never made an aggressive move, and the previous owner said she was as gentle as a kitten the whole time he had her, also. I know she was probably just being curious, but when she had her neck stretched out full length, with her nose just in front of my belly (she was on my bed waiting for me to finish getting the lid off her tank), I could hardly move. Even though she had just eaten and I knew that she probably wasn't even really hungry, I was utterly terrified.
When the bite first happened, even though it hurt, I kinda laughed it off. I figured that now I knew what it was like, I shouldn't be scared of it anymore. Now, though, even though I adore my snakes, I don't want to handle them. I know I shouldn't be scared, but I turn ice cold and have a hard time breathing when I do need to handle them. I never used to be like this. Ever since I figured out I liked snakes, even before I ever owned one, I've always been able to handle them without any fear whatsoever. DH's solution is to get rid of the one that bit me, but if I'm afraid of my other BCI, should I find homes for both? I really would rather get over my fear than just get rid of my snakes.
Anyone have any suggestions? Yes, I've tried just handling them casually, a few days after they've eaten so they're not hungry, but I was still afraid, even then. Please, please, please someone help me out here. I know someone's got to have some info on how I can get over this and get right back on the horse, so to speak.
Thanks all, in advance.

telefrag · #2 (**permalink**) 10-23-2003, 11:27 PM

If getting bit by a snake is that stressful to you, perhaps a different kind of pet is in order?
Its hard to take care of snakes and enjoy keeping them if your that afraid of getting bit, or one bite gets to you that bad.
I stopped counting 10 years ago how many times I was getting bit (and for me that was ALOT, probably several times a day)
Just dont think about it. thats the best I can tell you, bites from larger snakes can hurt, but just remember, it isnt going to kill you.
Getting bit by your do or cat or a parrot would hurt more.

Hang in there, im sure we have all gone through this, but remember, snakes dont bite to be mean, they bite if they are defending themselves, or think they are going after food.
so one of the two things happened in your case, and it sounds like it was feeding response.
Dont take it personally.

good luck!

LdyDrgn · #3 (**permalink**) 10-23-2003, 11:35 PM

This was my response to her in PM:

I know it can be nerve wracking handling a snake that has bitten you. I have had the same experience! The only thing I can tell you is to bite the bullet and understand that it was a feeding respose and to handle the snake more often. I had one of my boas bite me out of mere testiness, LOL. All I can gather was he didn't like my arm over his head while I was trying to shove him into his cage... he did NOT want to go back in It took a couple of times handling him again before I got over the fear. I am a little more careful of how I handle him specifically, but I still handle him. THAT is the important thing. Give yourself some time, and some credit!! You can do it, you can get over it.

John_White · #4 (**permalink**) 10-23-2003, 11:41 PM

The person who fears suffering is already suffering from what they fear. Nothin' to it, just to do it.

Stormyva · #5 (**permalink**) 10-24-2003, 01:11 AM

Very well put John!
I cant say anymore than what the others have, but stick with it and things will turn around for you!

telefrag · #6 (**permalink**) 10-24-2003, 01:12 AM

You should write ad slogans for NIKE John.

reptilemama · #7 (**permalink**) 10-24-2003, 03:07 AM

I was attacked bya dog when I used to work at the shelter, abd it took me a while before I was comfortable working in the dog room again, but I eventually jumped back in and after a while was comfortable with working with just about all of them. I still get a little cautious around dogs who seem likely to bite, but I figure it just makes me a little more careful. If it helps, have your hubby handle them while you watch, and gradually work into petting and then handling yourself. Good luck, I know it's not easy!

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