Prepare first
Wash your hands, rinse away every trace of soap and wet them with clean water. Handle close to the enclosure floor or another stable surface so an accidental fall is short.
Do not handle after applying hand cream, perfume, cleaning spray or other chemicals. Keep children supervised and ensure everyone washes their hands afterwards.
Move a resting snail when possible
The RSPCA recommends moving a snail when it is resting on the substrate rather than firmly attached to glass. Encouraging it onto a clean leaf or hand allows the animal to move without being pulled.
If a snail must be moved from a surface, moisten your hand and gently work a finger beneath the front of the foot, supporting more of the body as it releases. Never tug the shell against the suction of the foot.
Support the shell and body
Use both hands for a larger snail. Support the foot and the main weight of the shell without squeezing. Avoid the thin new growth around the shell opening, which is especially vulnerable to damage.
Keep sessions short and return the snail if it retracts deeply, produces excessive defensive mucus or is repeatedly trying to settle.
Practise good hygiene
Wash hands thoroughly after handling the snail, substrate, dishes or waste. Do not touch your face or prepare human food during enclosure maintenance, and keep snail equipment separate from kitchen equipment.