Again you try to twist my words. Where have I said Joe fresh off the street has any business keeping hots? Again if you read my posts I constantly argue for proper training for anyone thinking about keeping.



I suggest that you can spend a few minutes reading in the venomous (see I can spell it)forums where it is not difficult to find such posts. As it is I have been fought with for discouraging newbies from keeping hots.



This whole thread is supposed to be about those of us who do keep-not Joe who has a chance encounter. Aside from the illegals and wackos which I have no control over, the Hot keepers are very responsible-trained people. Many have quit when it became a safety issue (wife-kids).



That's a far different thing then the irresponsible image that the animal rights groups try to pin on us.



Why should I lie? People get bit from doing stupid things. If you are careful then Yes...there is (minimal) danger.



Again...If you don't allow it in striking range, then there is NO Danger. Know your animals striking range and keep out of it. Proper instruction in hook and tong use also greatly reduces risk.



A smart keeper minimalises handling. I have handled more than many keepers in bad conditions as I captured many rattlers in the wild for the Zoo and for animal rescue. By practicing safe protocols I have maintained my spotless record.



In all it is still far safer than driving on our roads.



Frank
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"The luxury of not getting involved departed with the last lifeboat Skipper..."

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