Yes... yes, I believe that should work. Food is a good tactic. Especially that kind, which they like. It should be fine as long as the animal is kept busy, should be alright to paint him. Might want to take pictures though, before/after.
It could be instinctive. I suppose I am sort of... special. Just the other day, I went with my nephew and his friend to the zoo. He wanted to pet the elephant and I wanted to make him happy.. so it got closer. It worked out.