Need a little input...

[Sabeth]

I volunteer in a hospice house, and the residents love animals. Since it's October and my smithi is black-and-orange (think Halloween), I've thought a few times about taking her over so they could see her. I'm just concerned about anyone having possible allergic reactions to her. I would not take her out of the cage and nobody would have direct contact with her, but I've heard of people having reactions just from being in the same room with a tarantula. On the other hand, I've also heard that some people bring their Ts places like schools for demonstrations, with no ill effects.

Is this a good idea or isn't it? I'd really appreciate some opinions. My smithi does not kick hairs, by the way. (Actually none of my Ts does.)

 

[Scoolman]

I keep tarantulas in my classroom, and I do shows at the elementary schools (I allow the children let a T walk across their hand). Never had problems.

 

[Sabeth]

That's sort of what I figured, too. Thanks for the fast response!

 

[tarantula88]

I think that's a awesome idea. You can bring a lot of happiness to people. I'm sure there will be a lot saying yuk but then you will have a lot of people loving it and finding it very fasinating.

 

[Sabeth]

Thanks, tarantula88! Yeah, I think it will be pretty neat.

 

[novakdesigns]

I think taking your T in is a fab idea. If people dont like it then they dont have to look but will be really cool for those who have never seen a T in real life before. Ive taken my Ts and scorpions I used to have to diff school. Never had any problems with allergic reactions or anything. Love a bit of festive fun with the pets

 

[Sabeth]

Thanks, novakdesigns...I'm getting really excited!

 

[novakdesigns]

Also forgot to say, i think its great you help out at a hospice

 

[TJB13]

I too think that's great. Definitely will have people that love it and people that hate it. Good thing it's not a hair flicker... I read an article that a young boy got urticating bristles in his eye during a demonstration in Toronto. Rare but unpleasant experience I'm assuming. They might also like her too much and want to keep her haha.

 

[Sabeth]

I'm taking her in on Monday.

 

[Trollagek]

I think it would be fine. I would make sure that if anyone is uncomfortable with it is out of the room first, because some people have phobias.

 

[DalilahBlue]

Let us know how it goes!

 

[Sabeth]

It went great! I got a variety of reactions...some people were very interested, some not so much, and some flatly refused to come near her...lol. (I had someone look at her and immediately leave the room!) But overall the reception was good. Several of the residents and staff were fascinated as well as interested. I think they enjoyed it.

As for Lulu, I'm not sure what she thought of all the action. She spent the whole day scrunched up against the cage wall! But once we got home and she was back in the quiet bedroom she stretched out and relaxed. So I think it went pretty well. Maybe Sanka will be next.

 

[TJB13]

Excellent. Glad to hear it went well Sabeth.

 

[novakdesigns]

So glad it went well

 

[Tongue Flicker]

Displaying it in a nice glass container for everyone to appreciate would be just nice. Most people admire staring at tarantulas nowadays but still no handling for them lol. Just bring some antihistamines with you just in case someone reacts

 

[Sabeth]

I take back what I said about my Ts never flicking...my genic sling decided it's time to start. And today I disturbed Lulu while she was eating and she kicked up a nice little cloud. So they almost never flick hairs!

 

[harleyqueen]

i Bet lulu enjoyed being The Star attraction even If She couldnt be bothered to get up and greet people.