Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have two semi-adult boas, and sooner or later I realize that I will be in a situation (vet visit or otherwise) that I might need to restrian a pissed off boa. A couple of years ago, when I first bought a yearling suri, I tried to pin him lightly and grab him like I've seen the guys on T.V.,but amazingly he somehow turned his head and got me on the finger with the left row of teeth. I am sure there is no textbook answer, but how do you do it? I mean- index finger between the eyes and two fingers under the bottom jaw or what? That's what it looks like in every picture or T.V. show I've seen-but I still got tagged by a neo. Are the adults less flexible?

.

but I want to know how the more experienced people do it. Please be descriptive in detail.

I use the leather driving gloves for any boas I have handled with a striking biteing problem. Most of the time the boa will not even bite, but if they do they strike a soft leather glove...easy on them and you. I would not try that with retics, as they have alot longer teeth.

I have found that they really do not want to strike. The old method of grabbing behind the head is really not necessary. Andy

with using a pair of leather cold weather motorcycle gloves. They have a fair amount of insulation and are made of very soft leather. I have only had to use them with one of my boas that was not accustomed to being handled and was what I can only describe as a "fear biter". She would bite first, then hiss. The leather would not harm her mouth or pull teeth out when she struck and over a period of months of regular handling she has come to understand that biting me does not get the desired response of me letting her go....now I am able to handle her like I do any of the others, with bare hands.

I did however like the first response to your question....."very carefully"! Now THAT is funny!

Denny

Where you might not have gloves or a stick nearby.

Sounds like you are talking about catching snakes...just carry a pair of gloves. Andy

This is rarely needed, if ever.

Begin by capturing the snake with gloves, snake bag or whatever.

Done! why would a closer grasp of the head be necessary?

Seriously though, it is not something that can be described as well as it can be shown. If you find yourself in the position to need this type of restraint then consult one on one with your veterinarian, vet tech, or another type of animal handler.