Garter snake help!! Please answer only if you have experience!?

I want to buy a Garter snake from a pet store, but I also know they can put off a horrid skunk like smell. I went to the store, and I held the snake and he was fine, but when he got put in the box he sprayed us, we had to put him back. Is it just because he was scared? Will he stop once I get him home and he gets used to his tank? And will the smell affect my other reptiles and animals? For more detail look at my other question under my profile to get the FULL story. Thanks