#raenbowpotato

[sir-p-audax]

so I have been thinking a lot about getting a spider friend but I have this really big fear of it getting squished somehow by accident???

It takes a good amount of finesse to handle spiders, so I can understand your fear. When I fist started keeping smaller spiders, I would get so nervous about accidentally dropping something in the container or knocking the container off the shelf.

One thing to keep in mind is that if you’re more confident, you’ll shake less. Don’t psych yourself out. Try to create the safest environment possible — this includes keeping the container/tank out of reach of other pets (I have heard many stories of tarantulas getting loose because a cat knocked the tank over), making sure the lid is secure (Smaller plastic lids should be snug, mesh lids on larger tanks should have clasps), and the decor in the enclosure isn’t in a place where your friend might get stuck and need human intervention.

If you plan on handling your spider friend, there are also a few things to keep in mind. The first one is to know what species it is. If it’s naturally skittish and defensive, don’t try to handle it. Do a bit of research and learn to recognize the warning signs of a defensive spider.

The second thing is if you decide your friend is safe to handle, take a moment to breath before hand. Calm yourself down. Convince yourself that it won’t hurt you and you won’t hurt it. If you’re nervous, you’ll have less control over your hands and you’ll probably shake.

The third thing is to make sure you can deal with it if it leaves your person. With tarantulas it’s best to sit on the ground to avoid falling hazard, as a fall from a standing height will kill it. With smaller spiders, have a capture method ready (like a small container or a cup) so you can quickly scoop it up if it escapes.

Overall just be kind to your spider friend! Send out good vibes. They’ll feel if you’re nervous. Let the spider trust you.

Good luck and happy hunting!~Caine