Parents think snakes are evil (I want a bp?)

My parents are convinced, it seems, they crawled out of the deepest, most fiery crevices where Satan himself would not venture and wriggled into the earth to put an end to the miserable lives of us all and drag us to where they came from. Maybe not quite that bad. There's no irrational fears. Just a 'I don't want a snake in my house.' I wrote a report on ball pythons -- eleven pages! Three pages persuasive essay, two pages reviews on ball pythons, one page a March calendar with dates to get the snake, clean, feed, handle, etc., four and a half printed website information from various sources to prove authentication (including links!) and half a page pros and cons. Plus a title page with a normal morph, a melanistic morph and a blue eyed lucy morph. Hand drawn! I've been trying to get my mom to read it about a week now. First day (thursday) -- gave it to her as I left for school, asked her to read it. Come home from school. She doesn't mention snakes or anything. "Did you read it?" "No." On Friday I left to go for my dads. I forgot it on my dresser. I BBM'd her. "Could you read my duotang over the weekend, it's on my dresser." She didn't touch it. Monday, she went into the hot-tub with my stepdad. I took advantage and put several sticky notes on, saying altogether, "READ ME... AND CONSIDER." I put it on their bed and went to bed. Nope, didn't read it. Today, Tuesday, I come home and -- YES! It's on the kitchen counter. Later, my brother comes by and picks it up. He begins reading out certain parts. He was making fun of it with my mom. She explained how she only skimmed through it because it was so long so far. I guess I did too much research for her.
I kinda skipped a big part of the story. Sorry it's jumpy.
About three weeks ago, I said to my mom, "I'm thinking of buying a ball python." This was after weeks of research. I'm 13, but I get better than good grades, I have a paper route and enough money and I look after my baby brother EVERY DAY -- I think I can handle a low activity pet. (Yes I'm OK with thawing & feeding mice.) She made a face and I explained to her how great they were, I can pay, they're just amazing, it stays in my room, she doesn't see it. Nope. She said, "Why don't you think about it?" "I HAVE thought about it!" "Well, I haven't." Surprise, surprise, that's all a lie seeing as she only wanted time to tell my stepdad and make HIM deal with it. The next day he took me with him to shop at Farmer Al's. "What's all this talk about a snake?" "I want a ball python. They grow to, like, three feet and I can buy it." (I want a male, not a female, BTW.) "There's no way we're letting a three foot snake into our house." He then flies into a rant about how I'm not responsible enough because I don't have a clean room. Sure, my room gets messy, but every Friday it's clean, laundry done, sheets changed, vacuumed, etc. Also, I'd pay WAY more attention to a snake than myself. Anyways, he eventually says, "If you think I'M uncomfortable with it, your mom's WILDLY uncomfortable with it. Why do you want a snake?" That was the ONLY question he asked me, and the ONLY question I couldn't answer. I've got a better question for him! Why's he keep dogs and like them when he's allergic? It just happens. When he couldn't answer, he proposed an answer. "I think you want things you can't have because you like to be angry." He didn't ask ANY questions about the actual snake which I could answer immediately. I was pissed. Three feet is NOT big. But then the miracle happened. A miracle I didn't realize until a couple hours later. He said, "Now, I'm a slave to logic. Maybe you could start with something smaller and easier and native, like a garter snake, if you did RESEARCH and could answer some questions. If you have logical answers I can't say no. Your mom might still veto it though. SO when you've got some answers, come find me." I later got thinking about garters. I looked it up, and they are not as good a beginner snake as a ball. Because:
-They eat fish (I feel these would not come frozen/thawed; it's a hassle to get live ones constantly, especially because garters supposedly eat more.)
-They grow about the same as a male ball python -- 3 feet
-They are snappier
So, I wrote a VERY logical report on ball pythons.
So, I was wondering if anyone had any tips on this. Also, why do you love snakes? Don't bother replying if
a) You'll say I hsouldn't have one
b)You'll say "their house, their rules"
c)why a snake?
d)it'll constrict the baby omg
e)snakes are bad
f)itll kil ur famly tats why they don want it snaeks r rlly bad nd itl constric u nd its venom wil kill u
..or anything of the sort. Thanks in advance!
Only HELPFUL stuff, please. Thanks in advance.

Well I don't think you're gonna get any D through F answers here. Now, I'll tell you about why I chose a snake, but judging from their response to your requests, I'd advise against thinking you'll change their mind.

I picked a snake for two primary reasons. The first is that my job tends to go 10-12 hours a day, and sometimes 3-4 days away from the house at a time. I simply can't support the needs of most mammals. I also live in an apartment complex where non-tank animals mean an expensive deposit, and increased rent. So for my situation, a (largely) low maintenance reptile that required ANY input on my part only every few days (water) and weekly (food) was very appealing.

Related to the first is that BPs have no emotional needs. There are days I get home from work, and I want nothing to do with anyone or anything. Not particularly pissed or anything, just emotionally distant. If I had a dog, I'd be neglecting it emotionally in a HUGE way. My BP could not care less whether I handle it on a given day as long as it's temps/humidity are good, and it has clean water.

First off, this is a snake forum, so no one is going to tell you something completely off the wall about a BP having venom or killing babies.

Secondly, you mentioned garters; if this would be a more acceptable pet I would really recommend getting an adult garter. I breed them; they eat pinkie mice and should actually not be fed live fish due to parasite concerns. Also, I don't know where you got the information that they are snappy, but they are actually far less nippy than a young ball python if you handle them regularly.
More importantly though, their husbandry requirements are far easier to meet than a BP's and they are a much better beginner snake. Or even something like a corn or kingsnake.

BP's require very specific temps and humidity, and are often not very tolerant of handling. From what you're saying it sounds like you'd be doing most of the care for this snake, so I'd really not recommend a BP. You are just 13, and from what it sounds like, you have no experience keeping reptiles at all. For someone your age keeping a BP healthy and happy without any parental help could be pretty difficult. Plus, there is a lot of equipment you need for BPs (heat mats, thermostats, heat bulbs or CHEs, ect) that can get kind of pricey (like hundreds of dollars). Research is good, but it's not a substitute for actual experience.

My recommendation would be for you to go with a garter, king, or cornsnake for your first snake. Then once you get the care down for that animal in a few years if you're still interested you may want to try a BP. Another issue with BPs is that they live a very long time (up to 40 years); if you get a BP your parents will eventually be the ones taking care of it when you leave for college.

I really think I can change their minds. My step-dad will almost definitely be impressed by the research. Also, if they say I'm not responsible enough I can fall back on being in student council, willingly doing science fairs four times this year, taking care of a baby, having a job, taking care of the family fish (im the only one who feeds them) getting straight A's, being in student council, and joining choir. Also, I can answer any question they can throw at me and pay for it. And my mom will be easy with him on my side. Fingers crossed!
P.S I usually get a 'present' each year I do science fair and do good in school.

I don't know where I heard garters are nippy either... I did, but I guess it depends on the snake. I honestly used to catch garters and play with them for hours. If I can't get a bp, I'll go garter. But I wont give up until october -- thats all ill ask for at my birthday.
PS I was on these forums and saw a thread, there was actually a lot of people saying snakes were _____. Basically any synonym for terrible.

I agree with DVirginiana. I'm happy that you're interested in reptiles at such a young age, and I'm glad you have a job and will be able to care for the animal, it sounds like you are willing to do a lot of research as well. You seem like you'll be a great reptile owner some day. Which is all well and good, but ball pythons have a lot of specific needs as already stated here, and they can get very expensive. EDIT: Also, their notorious feeding strikes can be very stressful and frustrating for a first time snake owner.

However, something like a corn snake is recommended across the board for beginners. Just like ball pythons, they come in tons of different colours/morphs to chose from. The babies are jumpy so to speak but they calm down with frequent handling and age, (or if you want to save up you could buy an adult who's already an established feeder and used to handling). They are also much smaller as hatchlings than BP's so it might be easier to convince your parents.

As for your parents...it sounds like you're going to have a hard time convincing them. Not going to promise a guarantee, but you could try condensing the information into something smaller, like a powerpoint with bullet points? Only give the information they need to know and that's relevant, but that also shows you put a lot of research into it and that you're serious about it. For example, slide 1 can be facts about the snakes themselves, slide 2 can be the monthly cost of having the snake to prove that you can afford it by yourself (make sure to account for any emergency vet bills, and look up nearby vets who take reptiles), slide 3 can be the needs of the snake, etc. That's how I convinced my dad to let me get my first snake, and he was deathly afraid of them.

I do stress the importance of finding a vet before you buy the snake, due to a power outage recently my bp now has a respiratory infection and the meds + vet visit cost 140$! So make sure you save money aside in case anything happens to your snake, as being 13 it will be hard to find emergency money if you aren't saving, and your parents might not want to help. Also, you should have all your supplies and tank set up before you buy the little guy, saves you a lot of time in the end.

Can't say I know much about garters, but never had a problem with a corn snake, they've always been chill little dudes with me. And again, they come in tons of pretty colours. :)

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Originally Posted by Nodnarb3do

Well I don't think you're gonna get any D through F answers here. Now, I'll tell you about why I chose a snake, but judging from their response to your requests, I'd advise against thinking you'll change their mind.

I picked a snake for two primary reasons. The first is that my job tends to go 10-12 hours a day, and sometimes 3-4 days away from the house at a time. I simply can't support the needs of most mammals. I also live in an apartment complex where non-tank animals mean an expensive deposit, and increased rent. So for my situation, a (largely) low maintenance reptile that required ANY input on my part only every few days (water) and weekly (food) was very appealing.

Related to the first is that BPs have no emotional needs. There are days I get home from work, and I want nothing to do with anyone or anything. Not particularly pissed or anything, just emotionally distant. If I had a dog, I'd be neglecting it emotionally in a HUGE way. My BP could not care less whether I handle it on a given day as long as it's temps/humidity are good, and it has clean water.

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this is the same for me, only i may be gone for a few months at a time (if i'm going to be away for more than a week, i have someone i trust look after my BPs).



i do have to say that i'm impressed a 13 yr old took the initiative to put together an 11 page report. keep that work ethic kid, and you'll go far.

I emailed a pet store - a SMALL one, not petsmart or anything - and have more than enough money. I almost always have more than $300 in my spending account, so vet bills should be alright. I'm sure my parents wouldn't just let it die, I'd pay them back too. If this doesn't work I've already started my slide show... I know ball pythons can be a bit tricky, but I've read about so many people who find it easy and love them. I'm kinda set on a bp, but willing to get a garter or corn. The only problem with corns is, they can get a bit longer than bp's, and they already think 3 feet is big for a snake. Also, i want a calm snake that can just chill out in handling, not HEY LOOK HERE WHATS THIS WHERE'D I GO OVER HERE HAHA WHUP IM ON YER LEG NOW DO YOU LIKE WHEN I EAT YOUR HAIR YEAH ME TOO
Anyways, thanks for the reply!
EDIT: I just looked it up. Our local vet we go to with our dog also looks after reptiles.

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Originally Posted by madelion

I emailed a pet store - a SMALL one, not petsmart or anything - and have more than enough money. I almost always have more than $300 in my spending account, so vet bills should be alright. I'm sure my parents wouldn't just let it die, I'd pay them back too. If this doesn't work I've already started my slide show... I know ball pythons can be a bit tricky, but I've read about so many people who find it easy and love them. I'm kinda set on a bp, but willing to get a garter or corn. The only problem with corns is, they can get a bit longer than bp's, and they already think 3 feet is big for a snake. Also, i want a calm snake that can just chill out in handling, not HEY LOOK HERE WHATS THIS WHERE'D I GO OVER HERE HAHA WHUP IM ON YER LEG NOW DO YOU LIKE WHEN I EAT YOUR HAIR YEAH ME TOO
Anyways, thanks for the reply!
EDIT: I just looked it up. Our local vet we go to with our dog also looks after reptiles.

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If you've got your heart set on a ball python, I think, again the best thing to do would be to get your tank set up perfectly before you get the ball at all, and keep it for a few days. Heck, probably best for a few weeks. In that time you can get into the habit of checking the temps and stuff daily, and see if you really can keep the tank perfect for a BP. That way, when you do finally get your BP, you already have habits in place and you know you have the tank and everything perfect for it.

3 feet is long, when they're stretched out, they also get very fat. However, like their namesake my balls like to stay in big fat balls, so when you look at them they certainly don't LOOK 3 feet long, they just look like a big fat lump lol. Maybe put a couple of pictures of that in your slideshow, some people holding adult balls in their hands to show that 3 feet really isn't that big when it comes to ball pythons.

Just want to add if u do end up getting one but it from a breeder someone who has had the snake it's whole life that way you know everything about it. I'm really impressed because at 13 I really wanted a snake and I would not have gone thru what u have to try and get one.

I love the work ethic and I'm glad to see that some kids still have it in this world we live in.

Never lose that drive

Actually (regardless of your "Do not comment if") I will comment because this is a PUBLIC forum and because I have been in your shoes which is why I can give you some food for the thoughts

Having parents that are against snakes regardless of the reason (fear, religion, not wanting a long term commitment etc) is NOT THE END of the world.

How do I know? Been there, done that.

I grew up in a family that was ok with dogs, cats, fishes, birds, hamsters but not ok with reptiles and there was no convincing, or compromising.

Years later when I finally settled down after spending several years moving from country to country I finally got a snake and took it even further than just have now been breeding snakes since 2008.

The bottom line it's their home and you should respect their wishes regardless of the reasoning behind it. (yep you do not want to hear it but this is a FACT of life)

If you are passionate today you still will be in 10 or even 20 years, you are young and a snake is a VERY long commitment, and right now you see the next year or two or three but many things will happen in the next few years college, travel etc and those are animals that can live 20 to 40 years.

As a parent, I'm impressed with your accomplishments, drive, and work ethic. As a son of a parent who can not stand snakes, I know your frustration. I'm over 30 and my mom will not step into my house because we have snakes in our living room. When I was 17 she was ok with me having a lizard, but she did not like the one I brought home because it "moved like a snake" (Nile Monitor). My advice, since your step dad seems more willing, is to try to get him envolved with it somehow. Like tell him you want his help setting up the tank. You could also see how a snake (without harming it obviously)could be the star of your next science project. As others have stated though I would start with something that has less husbandry needs than a bp. We have 22 bp's and 5 corns. Our teenage daughter has a baby corn. It's husbandry needs are met via ambient room temps and humidy, clean water, and a clean enclosure. Good luck to you, and keep us posted!:gj:

I have an intresting perspective as a former 13 year old that desperatly wanted a snake, but who's mother refused to discuss it, and then as the mother of a 13 year old that wanted an animal I honestly can't stand (rodents). -I know, my hubby teases my that that's why I love snakes.. and I will admit I do take a little satifaction out of watching Sampson eat his dinner.
One of my bigest concerns as a parent is that yea, you want that hampster now, but after 6 mo of cleaning out it's cage, and changing it's water, and playing with it are you still going to want it, cause let me tell you I want no part of caring for that thing. My best advise would be 1) persistance. the longer you keep it in thier mind it IS what you want and not just a momentary desire the more likly they are to really consider it. 2) a trail period. Do you know someone that has one that might be 'in need' of a snake sitter? It is a great wat to convince your parents you really do know what you are getting into. Reports and research are awesome, and I truly respect the amount of effort you have put into things so far. However actions speak louder. Honestly they might very well agree to snake sitting figuring that you Will get bored/uninterested and they won't have to hear you ask any more.
Good luck to you.

You are 13. Your mom's home, your mom's rules. Until you change her mind about getting a snake you have no business contacting breeders or pet shops about buying one, and no reputable breeder or seller will give you one unless your parent agrees.

Have you asked your dad if you can keep it at his place? Yes, you're not there as often, but BP's don't need to be tended multiple times daily like a dog or cat. If he's willing to check on it once a day when you're not there, is that an option?

You also do need to consider college in a few years, as most dorms won't let you have an animal in the room, and ball pythons can live for decades. If you are away at school will you have to give away your snake?

You said you have $300 saved... I paid almost $700 last year in vet bills on one of mine and it still died (part of that cost was the necropsy). If you don't have the money available for vet treatment, equipment, etc. will one of your parents cover it, or will your snake have to do without?

If your parents remain adamant you do have alternatives:
- Find a local private breeder who would be willing to let you help maintain his collection while you learn about the little critters. Reading and researching is fine, but nothing beats hands-on experience. This is how I fed my "horse habit" at your age, as there was no way I could afford to buy one; I traded work in exchange for lessons and catch rides.
- Once you're old enough get a job somewhere like a big box pet shop, and try to make a difference for the critters being sold there. Most aren't kept in correct conditions and sadly a lot of the employees just don't give a damn.

Finally, I would recommend a corn, king, or milk snake over a garter as a first snake. Garters can get long - we have four foot adults wild in the back yard - and they're not really tolerant of handling. We have two younger ones that will bite you as soon as look as you. I would rather handle a 4+ foot chill king snake than my 18" pissy garter.

My first snake was a corn, then i got nugget my BP/ I love my corn but is not a very relaxing pet, she is very active and i could never sit and watch tv with her like i do with my BP. garters are also quick moving, but are very gentel. no matter which one you decide on get it from a small breeder, i got my corn as a yearling from a large breeder and she was never handled and she is still nippy and will strike a bit.I got my BP from a small family breeder and he has been a joy to have. Don't forget that BPs can be a little food picky and some will never eat frozen thawed, so try to get one one from a breeder who has already moved the young to frozen. That might be another reason your mom will say no. They might relent with the stipulation that it only eats frozen. hope this helps. good luck

Ok, I need to clear up a couple things.
First of all, no way I could keep it at my dads. We live in Ontario. His work schedule is 2 weeks in Alberta, 1 week home. I'm lucky to be there four nights and one night a restaurant in three weeks. My stepmom does not have a job. But she watches two very hyper dogs, two stupid cats, and my sister. She cooks dinner, feeds animals, cleans, repeat. I doubt she wants to handle a ball python around those animals, even though she's indifferent to snakes. Or feed it mice. I just don't want to give her ANOTHER thing because 'my pet' is there.
Second, the reason I contacted pet stores was for a plan. My parents are the ones who say, "SOOO... How much will it cost all together? Where you getting it from? Why are you getting it from that pet store that's more expensive? " it'll cost about $288. I'm getting it from where we get our fish. I'm getting it more expensive because they have CB&B pythons, not WC or CH. If I say "I dunno," they'll say "Well THAT doesn't sounds responsible/like you did much research," (despite the report.)
I would NEVER go behind my parents backs and buy a snake. It was purely to be able to answer their questions they think I can't answer.

I found a small breeder with juveniles on f/t (: that's why I want a BP. They're much calmer than corns. Although corns are nice too

If your question then is why do I like snakes/ want one as a pet here goes. I like snakes because they are a non-demanding animal, if I don't want to handle them 1 week because I'm too busy it's all good, unlike a dog that will poop in your shoe because it feels neglected. I change his water every few days, feed him 1x a week and clean his cage (roll up the paper towel sub-strate and lay a fresh one) afer he poops every week or 2. Thats it, if I did nothing more then that Sampson would be perfectly content. No daily walks, no barking waking me up at 2 am (after 3 kids I am so over that it's not funny), just quiet, calm companionship. I quite frankly enjoy watching my boy eat (might not be best to mention that as it might make the wrong impression, but hey since you asked) It's exciting, and satifying. I like the way they feel, and enjoy watching them crawl around - all those muscles working together, I find it amazing and beutiful. I love when he holds his head high and and flicks his tounge out testing the air, it's elegant and delicate. I LIKE knowing I will have him for 20+ years, I hated burying my cats every 10 (or less due to traffic accidents) I enjoy just chilling out playing my computer with him wrapped around my shoulders, and trying to convince him that it's not THAT kind of mouse, it makes me laugh.
Now why I would recomend a BP particularly, they are CALM, I mean royalty used to wear them around thier neck (hence thier scientific name) which is also good if you have other children in the house. They are one of the easiest snakes to handle and and least agressive. If you do somthing to make a BP bite you it is your own darn fault. It they do it hurts (I'm told-I haven't accualy been bit) but that's about it. No venom, no frantic run to the ER. They do get a bit bigger then some of the alternatives, but most of those are faster and more likly to get away from you. Thier set up is more money, but almost all your expence is up front. They have VERY specific tempeture/humidity requirments, but once they are set up it's just basic maitnence, and the expence of weekly feeding, substraight, and electricity. If there is an issue OC then the vet, but that goes with out saying I hope.
Sounds like your mom has a lot on her plate is more indifferent then venimously against the idea. If that is the case, then up play the low maintnece part, assure her that a BP is non-agressvie, and gentle, even shy. It's no danger to anyone (even a samll baby), and is a good QUIET companion for you that she will barly even notice. Your step-dad seems much more receptive, play up your intrest and try to get him involved (at your age he may be looking for some way to engage with you, I know my 13 year old and I have issues finding common ground).
Serously can you find someone that would let you borrow a BP for a few weeks? With your parents permission of course and try to phrase it as a favor to the guy with the snake. As a parent I'm MUCH more likly to agree to somthing like that if I know there is an end in sight, before fully commiting. I did that with my son, he brought the class hapmsters home over winter break. However he flaked out after a week or 2 and left me to do all the work. One of the stupid things bit me.. I HATE rodents. Needless to say he didn't get his own hampster, if he had taken care of the things I probobly would have let him have one though. So that's my advice, long-winded as it is.

Okay, first let me say this .. DO NOT GET YOUR HOPES UP.. better to be pleasantly surprised than extremely let down.

Now for my story. 2 years ago I was terrified of snakes, wanted nothing to do with them. No I did not believe they came from the pits of hell (though I was raised by my grandparents and my grandmother literally says snakes are the devil) I just did not want any snake near me.
That being said my sons did want one, and my husband had a Burmese in the past and wanted another snake.

Fast forward ... After being begged and begged I finally decided to do some research and did find that ball pythons were good pets. Now the next step was to hold one. Off to the pet store to hold a "dirty disgusting slithery snake" yep I was awful at the time.
Woman hands me the tiniest little snake who then wraps around my wrist and rests its head on my hand. It was pretty much love at first sight.

2 weeks later Khaleesi was on her way home with us. I am now the biggest fan in our household of snakes and have 3 balls with plans on at least one more.. I am waiting for that right deal on a banana!

So for my advice, first do not try to force your parents it will only get you in trouble, but if possible get them to actually meet a ball and see what their opinions are then. Speaking with a breeder would be great to.

Well, congrats to you for even being able to put together a eleven page essay on ball pythons! A persuasive essay at that! We all need you to make copies of that and send it to the U.S. Fish and wildlife service to counter that upcoming legislation banning more of the large constrictors. On a lighter note though, keep informing your parents on your desires and stay on top of your game. Your academic acheivements should be rewarded as should your obvious display of responsibility. Continue to do your research on bp husbandry and care. You will eventually win them over. Good luck! :gj:

Madeline, let me give you a positive view from a parent's perspective. You may want to let your parents read this or print it out.

I've raised two girls into fine adults. I remember all too clearly those rocky teenage years. Those times of uncertainty, swaying emotions, raging hormones and lots of irrational thinking with only a pinch of decernment.

Those lonely times in their rooms is when they do a lot of heavy thinking, planning, and which road to take. During this time, a PERSONAL pet of their own and their own choosing can be an excellent vehicle to help in personel development.

One of my daughters wanted a rabbit. I thought that was the dumbest pet to get. But it turned out to be the perfect pet! Not only was it cool, it helped my oldest daughter in many ways emotionally that the family dog and cat could not.

Then when the younger one grew older and asked for a Ball Python that I was not wild about; what could I say. I knew that she was different and had different needs.
This snake had a great calming effect on my daughter who was filled with rage. It also taught her some empathy for others.
Another good move.

With all of the visits to the pet shop and the great research that you have done Madeline, it is clear to me that you want a Ball Python as a pet and that you will be a responsible caretaker. As to why you want one? To me as a parent, that is a nonissue. With your drive and desire the point is that you HAVE the strong desire. As long as you keep your snake in your room I just can't see what the problem is.

BTW- my oldest daughter was really afraid of the snake. What got her over the fear was when I told her that in the very remote possibility that IFFFFFF she ever got bit; the bite from playing with the dog or the scratch from playing with the cat hurts 25 times worse than a bite from a Ball Python. You could see the weight from relief being lifted from her shoulders.

Why is such a silly question. Why does any one want any pet? The most important thing is that the animals needs are met, that it's happy and healthy. You certainly have put a ton of work and thought into your plans for a snake, and if you were my kid I would certainly be giving it some mighty consideration.

So, as a parent, let me give you some perspective that may also be a factor. As a young teen, you won't legally be able to keep a job aside from the occasional side work like moving lawns or shoveling driveways, which means financial responsibility falls to your parents. It's true that most of the cost is in the set up (looks like you've already budgeted that, so good job), but there are also ongoing costs, like substrate, upgrades to equipment, feeding and the like. And if your snake gets sick, which can happen even if you have top notch husbandry, vet bills can stack up quick. Deb already mentioned one of the other potential hang ups, and that is that as a younger person, your life is going to be going through a lot of changes in the next few years. You most likely won't be living in the same place forever, as things like collage, jobs, even dating might move you around the country. You would think that a small snake like a ball python won't be an issue to move, but sometimes things happen, and you may need to someday find someone else to care for your pet. Your parents might be wary of that someone being them.

Now, I'm not saying any of these could be's and what if's ARE going to happen, but they might be things your parents are worried about, and having excuses like snakes being evil, or dangerous are much easier fallbacks than the hard, honest talks, sad but true. If I were you, I would bring them up first. That's not a guarantee, but keep being thoughtful and doing your homework. Worst case scenario, you just have to wait until you have your own job and place.

I get one beginning of next school year

I get one beginning of grade 9

Awesome good luck :)

I got my first snake at 15, after my parents told me I couldn't have one for 4 years. I just went and bought the snake and everything he needed, brought it home and kept it in my room. My mom was mad at first, but got over it. I still live with her, and have 9 snakes now. Anytime she sees one she screams and freaks out and calls them evil and "slimy" (where does this even come from?), but she doesn't care about them when they're out of sight.
I say just getting one and proving your responsibility is the best course of action after you've exhausted yourself trying to convince them they're not devilish creatures


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Originally Posted by serpenttongues

I got my first snake at 15, after my parents told me I couldn't have one for 4 years. I just went and bought the snake and everything he needed, brought it home and kept it in my room. My mom was mad at first, but got over it. I still live with her, and have 9 snakes now. Anytime she sees one she screams and freaks out and calls them evil and "slimy" (where does this even come from?), but she doesn't care about them when they're out of sight.
I say just getting one and proving your responsibility is the best course of action after you've exhausted yourself trying to convince them they're not devilish creatures


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Wow no. No. That is NOT how you prove you're "responsible", that is how you prove you can't be trusted. Your mom has an obvious discomfort, and you disrespected her, and continue to disrespect her by filling her home with things that make her feel threatened. If you were my kid, I would have taken the first snake back to the place you bought it from and gotten a refund. That your parent doesn't have the will enforce you not walking all over her and :cens0r::cens0r::cens0r::cens0r:ting on her feelings, doesn't make you somehow magically right about it. It makes you a pretty darn irresponsible prick. From the sound of this post it almost seems like you delight in tormenting her, which is a pretty mean and nasty thing to do.

I understand having disagreements, or differing points of view from your parents. My mother doesn't care for snakes either, nor does my husband's mom or his uncle. Do you know how we handle that? We keep the snakes in OUR space, and warmed them up through responsible education and advocation. They still don't like snakes, but they like seeing pics of the kids with them, they will (from a respectful distance) look at and enjoy the snakes, and even recently they've been helping me share and spread news about the Lacey ban and USARK, because they see that beyond their fear, snakes are still pretty cool, and so are the people that keep them.

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Originally Posted by madelion

I get one beginning of grade 9

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Great news Madeline!:)

That gives you plenty of time to have the enclosure paid for and prepared befored your Ball arrives.

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Originally Posted by Lizardlicks

Wow no. No. That is NOT how you prove you're "responsible", that is how you prove you can't be trusted. Your mom has an obvious discomfort, and you disrespected her, and continue to disrespect her by filling her home with things that make her feel threatened. If you were my kid, I would have taken the first snake back to the place you bought it from and gotten a refund. That your parent doesn't have the will enforce you not walking all over her and :cens0r::cens0r::cens0r::cens0r:ting on her feelings, doesn't make you somehow magically right about it. It makes you a pretty darn irresponsible prick. From the sound of this post it almost seems like you delight in tormenting her, which is a pretty mean and nasty thing to do.

I understand having disagreements, or differing points of view from your parents. My mother doesn't care for snakes either, nor does my husband's mom or his uncle. Do you know how we handle that? We keep the snakes in OUR space, and warmed them up through responsible education and advocation. They still don't like snakes, but they like seeing pics of the kids with them, they will (from a respectful distance) look at and enjoy the snakes, and even recently they've been helping me share and spread news about the Lacey ban and USARK, because they see that beyond their fear, snakes are still pretty cool, and so are the people that keep them.

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Okay wow there is absolutely no need to start name-calling. Like stated, I BOUGHT my first snake at 15 after my parents wouldn't. You DO NOT know my situation, me, or my parents so there is absolutely no need to be inconsiderate. I'm a 20 year old adult with a job and college, I still live with my mom and she has never truly had a problem with my snake-keeping - what parent would have a problem with their child's passion? I have converted my sister to a snake lover, my dad doesn't care either way about snakes but enjoys my lizard, and all my family who has come over to my house has held the snakes. Even my grandma, who hates them. I made my uncle like my pied so much he wanted to take him home, and I showed my 7 year old cousin who was deathly afraid of snakes and screaming and crying when I brought them out, that snakes are cool (he was begging his mom for one at the end of the day). So no, I'm not an ignorant prick because my mom goes "ewwww those are so nasty" when I bring them out, or when I'm cleaning tubs. She does not feel threatened, so does not feel disrespected. She is not tormented. She has calmly held the snakes before. She is also an over dramatic lady (that's where all the "ewww's" and "nasty's" and "gross" come from.)
I lived with both my parents at the age of 15 when getting my first snake, as dad's rules went - as long as I cared for it, I could keep it. It's not much different than bringing home a KITTEN off the side of the road.
So don't go jumping to assumptions that I'm some wild little child who doesn't know how to handle himself. I'm a loving pet owner who has boas, pythons, colubrids, fish, lizards, cats, and a dog. Never have any of them gone hungry or suffered for any reason. I put my pets before myself and I think that makes me damn responsible.










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Hello 20 year old person still in collage and living with their parents. I'm a 30 year old person with two kids who pays rent and bills, and is about to purchase a home. I am speaking to you from the point of view as a parent. I'm sure you do love your pets and care for them, but the fact of the matter is, at 15 you were not legally an adult, you were still bound by the house rules of your parents, and you went against them, whether or not you did it with your money. It worked out for you, congratulations.

Now. YOU DO NOT KNOW THE HOME SITUATION OF THE OP, EITHER. DO NOT. DO NOT. Tell an under age minor still living with their parents to "do it anyway" and "that's how you prove you're responsible." Stuff like this is what will happen. On top of that, OP is even younger now than what you were, and not legally able to hold a job with a steady income, which means they HAVE to use their parents money. How long exactly do you think the 'do it anyway' thing would fly in that sort of situation?

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Originally Posted by Lizardlicks

Hello 20 year old person still in collage and living with their parents. I'm a 30 year old person with two kids who pays rent and bills, and is about to purchase a home.

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Just to let you know, the word you are trying to spell is spelled like this: college. Collages are those fun magazine cut out pages we used to make as kids. Sorry, grammar/spelling nazi over here.

Congrats on being able to get the snake!! I am happy for you. :)

I've never understood why people feel the need to correct spelling/grammar when it's obvious what someone was trying to say. It doesn't clear anything up (since I'm pretty sure no one thought we were talking about collages) and just ticks people off.

I'm glad OP got permission to get a snake, because the advice to just go get one without the parents' permission was just completely inappropriate. Luckily it worked out for the person who did it without any harm coming to the snakes, but you don't know the OP's situation or how their parents would react. That advice could cause a snake to be abandoned or killed depending on how the parents reacted.

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Originally Posted by DVirginiana

I've never understood why people feel the need to correct spelling/grammar when it's obvious what someone was trying to say. It doesn't clear anything up (since I'm pretty sure no one thought we were talking about collages) and just ticks people off.

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I just think if this person is so gung-ho about letting a kid know that they are a parent and 30 and about to buy a house, they might want to be able to spell the word college. To me, one seems less intelligent when spelling common words incorrectly, but it really doesn't matter what I think. I was just trying to let them know so perhaps it will stick and they won't keep misspelling the word. Seriously, I did not mean to start an argument or come across as rude. Now please no one respond to this, so that the thread can remain on topic.

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Originally Posted by amozo

I just think if this person is so gung-ho about letting a kid know that they are a parent and 30 and about to buy a house, they might want to be able to spell the word college. To me, one seems less intelligent when spelling common words incorrectly, but it really doesn't matter what I think. I was just trying to let them know so perhaps it will stick and they won't keep misspelling the word. Seriously, I did not mean to start an argument or come across as rude. Now please no one respond to this, so that the thread can remain on topic.

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huh, i guess it is spelled with an e lol

my posts probably bug you alot XD

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Originally Posted by xyzpdq75

huh, i guess it is spelled with an e lol

my posts probably bug you alot XD

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No, not at all! I like your posts and definitely agree. I just shouldn't have said anything. :fishslap:

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Originally Posted by Lizardlicks

Hello 20 year old person still in collage and living with their parents. I'm a 30 year old person with two kids who pays rent and bills, and is about to purchase a home. I am speaking to you from the point of view as a parent. I'm sure you do love your pets and care for them, but the fact of the matter is, at 15 you were not legally an adult, you were still bound by the house rules of your parents, and you went against them, whether or not you did it with your money. It worked out for you, congratulations.

Now. YOU DO NOT KNOW THE HOME SITUATION OF THE OP, EITHER. DO NOT. DO NOT. Tell an under age minor still living with their parents to "do it anyway" and "that's how you prove you're responsible." Stuff like this is what will happen. On top of that, OP is even younger now than what you were, and not legally able to hold a job with a steady income, which means they HAVE to use their parents money. How long exactly do you think the 'do it anyway' thing would fly in that sort of situation?

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I'd have to agree with that. If I'd have done that while still living with my parents, I'd have hell to pay. And the animal would have been taken back.

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Originally Posted by amozo

I just think if this person is so gung-ho about letting a kid know that they are a parent and 30 and about to buy a house, they might want to be able to spell the word college. To me, one seems less intelligent when spelling common words incorrectly, but it really doesn't matter what I think. I was just trying to let them know so perhaps it will stick and they won't keep misspelling the word. Seriously, I did not mean to start an argument or come across as rude. Now please no one respond to this, so that the thread can remain on topic.

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Not unintelligent, or a purposeful misspelling. Just trying to be calm while angry, and not catching dumb typos. Sometimes my finger dance off and type things that I know to be incorrect (know instead of no, peak instead of pique, etc.) Very obnoxious, but I'm not so vexed by it when in a casual setting like a message board or live chatting with friends.

(Also, tumblr has been an atrocious influence on my punctuation usage. Oops.)

Lizardlicks got angry really quick and easy here. Name calling? Prick? I don't see the need for the lack of self control.
I thought this was a more professional gathering.

@OP: Sorry about all the derails kiddo. You did the right thing, stuck to your guns, and demonstrated a lot of knowledge and initiative. It paid off now, and it will pay off again in the future. Congrats on your future pet! :gj:

@serpenttongues: I am sorry I snapped. The name calling was inappropriate. From the wording of your initial post, it sounded as though you got some sort of enjoyment from your mom's discomfort, and I don't hold well to people who would treat another human being that way. I still do not approve of your method, and am even more disappointed that you thought this was good advice to pass on to a young person.

Advice: go hug your mom, tell her you love her, tell her that you're sorry about having gone against her wishes when you brought the first snake home when you were younger and more belligerent, but that you sincerely appreciate her continued support of you and your hobby, despite her discomfort.

@Boomerang: When a grown person is advocating bad behavior, and encouraging a kid to take a course of action that could well endanger an animal, and permanently damage the trust between parent and child, then has the gall to call it "responsible," yeah, I get mad. When the person makes a reply talking about how funny they think it is when someone they should care about screams in fear and runs away from them, yeah, I get mad. Contrary to what you came into this place under the impression under, we're people. With emotions. From the tone of one of your other posts, you seem to have a problem with that.

If people reacting negatively to out right terrible advice or behavior is gonna be hard for you to deal with, maybe go hang out with some robots for a while. Now are we done derailing this thread?

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BP's require very specific temps and humidity, and are often not very tolerant of handling. From what you're saying it sounds like you'd be doing most of the care for this snake, so I'd really not recommend a BP. You are just 13, and from what it sounds like, you have no experience keeping reptiles at all. For someone your age keeping a BP healthy and happy without any parental help could be pretty difficult. Plus, there is a lot of equipment you need for BPs (heat mats, thermostats, heat bulbs or CHEs, ect) that can get kind of pricey (like hundreds of dollars). Research is good, but it's not a substitute for actual experience.

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I HEAVILY disagree.

Where does experience start? Ball Pythons are very easy to take care of. Make sure you buy the initial supplies first. The enclosure and thermostat are the biggest expense, and feeding one BP is not expensive -- ask the breeder if the snake is a good eater! Buy the supplies first, obviously, so that you don't have a snake but have to save up for the supplies. I feel like you'd do that anyways, it sounds like you're a thoughtful person. All my racks are used, as are two of my thermostats, except my Herpstat. I seriously have huts and water dishes -- enough for 20 snakes, my turtles, and then some -- plus a snake hook I don't need/want, and some other stuff I got for $40 off of a local reptile forum from someone who was getting rid of his snake selection. I'd look for some things used, like the enclosure and tank decorations. You can build enclosures too, which can be cheap and also further help prove your dedication to your parents, or even provide you with a way to do something WITH your parents to get them involved in your new pet. There are guides online for things like this. The BP can even be free or cheap -- my first BP was a free rescue, which ignited my passion -- I now have 20 of the critters. I had never had a snake when I got my first BP, and expected my first to be a colubrid. I was not perfect at first, I did have a bit of small trial and error with temps and humidity, sure, but fixing it was easy enough. And I got the snake before the research and supplies (would not recommend, but I was saving the animal from a really, really, really bad situation and I had to make a fast choice -- again, very specific situation here, I wasn't looking for a pet snake, I was saving someone else's). I was probably 16 or 17 at the time. Try looking into rescue, reptile show, or breeder instead of an over-priced pet store, who will try to also sell you many things you might not need.

Experience starts somewhere. It starts after you've done good research, which is sounds like you've done. If this reasoning was always used, every person to finally take the leap to gain experience would be deemed irresponsible. Sure, a corn snake might be easier in different ways, but a BP is also easy.

I started raising finicky amphibians and chameleons at 11. The chameleons were admittedly also partially my parents', the toads and frogs were mine. I also acquired a snapping turtle at 13. Those, in my opinion, are harder than a BP in requirements, and probably should not have been a child's pets. I've also had numerous colubrids, and found them to be more flighty, more nippy, more smelly/messy, and, depending on the species, harder than BPs. BPs often use less bedding, many are calm, and there are many resources for them. I was a child who had a passion for animals, read and researched them extensively. If you're 13 years old, and you've written a persuasive essay or two to convince your parents, have read and researched many things, and come to a forum to learn more, I think you're a kid that's ready to have a BP as a pet. I'm not really sure I understand the bias about them not being a beginner's snake. Mangrove snakes, hognose snakes (maybe), vine snakes, sunbeam snakes...obviously hot snakes...large, large constrictors...THOSE are snakes that I'd NOT recommend to you as a beginner/child! While it's true that most reptiles have specific needs, BPs needs' are easy enough to accommodate, and they're hardy enough, readily captive-bred, and more are gentle than not.

If you MUST get a colubrid, I would not recommend a garter -- I love them personally, but they're energetic and often flighty. The few I've had/rescued/worked with (I used to work at a nature center) were not the most fun to handle. Cornsnakes, Ratsnakes, Milksnakes, and Kings are awesome. Keep in mind that some of them get much larger than 3 feet. The Eastern Black Rat is the longest native snake in North America I believe. Most cornsnakes don't reach 5 feet, but I had a male who did.

First of all, the kid got permission to get a BP next year with their parents' support...

Many people do not recommend BPs as beginner snakes. These recommendations were given to someone who we didn't know at the time would have help/support both financially and in husbandry from their parents. I'm glad you could raise chameleons, snapping turtles, and finicky frogs at the age of 13, because most children that age would not be able to meet the husbandry requirements with no financial help or help getting the husbandry correct.
Also betting you didn't pay for everything yourself; or you were the world's richest 13 year old.

I started with garters at the age of 12 and never had any trouble with them. Yes they can be a little flighty, but they are a lot more forgiving of husbandry issues than a BP.

IMO research is not a substitute for experience. Starting with a tropical species that has to have very specific temp ranges/hot spots/humidity requirements is very different than starting with a temperate species that barely even requires supplemental heat. Someone who isn't used to constantly checking on these parameters could easily get overwhelmed with it or make mistakes, especially a child. Saying that tropical species are not ideal beginner pets is a far cry from logic that would "deem everyone irresponsible".

I'll tell you a secret. I use to catch garters, play with them, release when I saw them. Never bitten. All calm. BUT, I really wanted a ball python and used biased info for an argument against garters. Maybe not truthful, but creating arguments and bias happens a lot in life. I honestly think any snake makes a good pet, for whoever you are. You grew up with garters, you think they're the best beginner. Another grew up with corns got bit by a ball, they love corns think balls have bad tempers. Someone had the sweetest retic and worst milk snake. I will, inevitably, one day claim balls are the best beginners -- but this cannot be truthful, because I only begun and can begin with ONE. Therefore, I will think they're the best beginner; because I never will have begun with a corn / retic / burm / milk / king / rat / tree / water / garter snake.

I actually don't think garters are the best beginner. If I had to do it over again and make a more educated choice (my first snake literally escaped in the pet store and was given to me for free when I caught him; still have him too!) I would have chosen a corn or kingsnake because garters' dietary requirements are more complex than most other temperate species. I think they certainly can be a beginner. Probably wouldn't recommend them for very young children since they can be a little nippy and easily dropped/hurt especially when young.

I think BPs certainly CAN be a starter snake, but only if someone is well aware of all the potential issues and problems that come from husbandry that is a little more advanced as well as the long lifespan-- which you definitely seem to be. A lot of times people who are more experienced keeping animals will almost sound like they are trying to talk new owners out of buying a certain species as a pet. This isn't really the case; we just want to be sure someone is still interested in the animal even after knowing all the potential negatives and just how much effort goes into keeping them.

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Originally Posted by DVirginiana

I'm glad you could raise chameleons, snapping turtles, and finicky frogs at the age of 13, because most children that age would not be able to meet the husbandry requirements with no financial help or help getting the husbandry correct.
Also betting you didn't pay for everything yourself; or you were the world's richest 13 year old.

IMO research is not a substitute for experience. Starting with a tropical species that has to have very specific temp ranges/hot spots/humidity requirements is very different than starting with a temperate species that barely even requires supplemental heat. Someone who isn't used to constantly checking on these parameters could easily get overwhelmed with it or make mistakes, especially a child. Saying that tropical species are not ideal beginner pets is a far cry from logic that would "deem everyone irresponsible".

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I think you are being too harsh. The OP sounds like they are very intelligent for their age and very knowledgeable on ball pythons from so much research. I bet half of the new members on here that are double the OP's age couldn't even write a single page report on the ball pythons care, never mind an 11 page report. To gain complete experience for keeping a BP is not going to come from a garter or corn snake since they have completly different requirements IMO. I've kept kings/corns when younger and I found them more troubling with constantly trying to escape and being so quick when handling. With research on this fourm I've LEARNED to properly keep a ball python and mine eats every 5 days and sheds/defecates perfect. Knowledge goes a long way despite age. I've seen grown adults still clueless on these snakes care after countless members try helping them. And not everyone goes away to college, a large percentage commute. I'd rather have my kids get a snake that feeds once a week and to just check on daily parameters than have a mammal that needs constant attention and care multiple times a day. There are far worse pets to start with. Again, knowledge is key. They seem very knowledgeable in the subject and can learn more here. Goodluck!

...I was responding to the poster directly above that response that was talking about getting snapping turtles at age 13, not the OP.
I've said multiple times that I think the OP has done their research and, while I wouldn't recommend a BP as a first snake, that it certainly can be done. Did you even read my most recent post?

My reasons for recommending another snake prior to a BP (which MANY people did on this thread, so I'm not sure why my post was singled out) in an ideal situation is that someone who is completely unused to checking temps/humidity/ect. has a lot more leeway with temperate species until they get their husbandry correct, the lifespan is shorter for someone who doesn't actually know whether or not they'll really enjoy keeping snakes, and the setup is cheaper for someone who may have limited funds.
Does this mean no one can get it right with a BP their first time around? No. It's just my opinion that a BP isn't THE ideal beginner snake.

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Originally Posted by DVirginiana

...I was responding to the poster directly above that response that was talking about getting snapping turtles at age 13, not the OP.
I've said multiple times that I think the OP has done their research and, while I wouldn't recommend a BP as a first snake, that it certainly can be done. Did you even read my most recent post?

My reasons for recommending another snake prior to a BP (which MANY people did on this thread, so I'm not sure why my post was singled out) in an ideal situation is that someone who is completely unused to checking temps/humidity/ect. has a lot more leeway with temperate species until they get their husbandry correct, the lifespan is shorter for someone who doesn't actually know whether or not they'll really enjoy keeping snakes, and the setup is cheaper for someone who may have limited funds.
Does this mean no one can get it right with a BP their first time around? No. It's just my opinion that a BP isn't THE ideal beginner snake.

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I quoted a few people but only your post showed, weird. But I'm not singling you out I just think people are being too harsh with the OP's age. Keeping reptiles for me kept me away from drugs, alcohol and all the other bad influences young teens experience and I think it is great they are so enthusiastic about getting a ball python and starting a passion for reptiles. Since they proved this is something they truly want and spent so much time researching we should be helping them out instead of trying to sway them. This is the next generation that this hobby will eventually rely on and all the knowledge the better! [emoji1] I'm personally glad I didn't stick with colubrids and went with pythons and boas so why make the OP get a animal they are not happy with?

I think the main issue was that the OP wasn't sure if they would have their parents' help at all. I think that makes a huge difference when you're talking with younger keepers.

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Originally Posted by DVirginiana

First of all, the kid got permission to get a BP next year with their parents' support...

Many people do not recommend BPs as beginner snakes. These recommendations were given to someone who we didn't know at the time would have help/support both financially and in husbandry from their parents. I'm glad you could raise chameleons, snapping turtles, and finicky frogs at the age of 13, because most children that age would not be able to meet the husbandry requirements with no financial help or help getting the husbandry correct.
Also betting you didn't pay for everything yourself; or you were the world's richest 13 year old.

I started with garters at the age of 12 and never had any trouble with them. Yes they can be a little flighty, but they are a lot more forgiving of husbandry issues than a BP.

IMO research is not a substitute for experience. Starting with a tropical species that has to have very specific temp ranges/hot spots/humidity requirements is very different than starting with a temperate species that barely even requires supplemental heat. Someone who isn't used to constantly checking on these parameters could easily get overwhelmed with it or make mistakes, especially a child. Saying that tropical species are not ideal beginner pets is a far cry from logic that would "deem everyone irresponsible".

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I did have parental help. I guess I was working off the assumption that a parent allowing thier child to buy a pet was to assume some finacial responsibility should it be needed. I did all maintanance.

My point was, obviously research isn't a substitute for experience. My point, rather, was that experience has a start, a point at which it begins. At some point someone has to make that leap where they buy the animal and begin the experience. All in all, I don't think BPs are difficult, or not a beginners' snake. Having a garter snake is also a different experience from having a BP. The ball python adds the more precise heating and humidity to the snake keeping experience, sure, but it's not rocket science; I don't think they make a BP deemed a difficult pet. My point of mentioning some of those other pets was that a heating or humidity error, even brief, could kill them quickly. Ball pythons are fairly hardy. Different from, say, a sunbeam snake, that might experience failure to thrive even should you be seemingly properly fulfilling all the needs they have, based on the limited information available for the species.

I'm still just missing how they're not easy reptiles. I mean I get what you're saying I guess, but I still strongly disagree. We are entitled to our own opinions, after all.

Forgive typos, I'm doing this on my phone and I suck at it.

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Originally Posted by Lizardlicks

@serpenttongues: I am sorry I snapped. The name calling was inappropriate. From the wording of your initial post, it sounded as though you got some sort of enjoyment from your mom's discomfort, and I don't hold well to people who would treat another human being that way. I still do not approve of your method, and am even more disappointed that you thought this was good advice to pass on to a young person.

Advice: go hug your mom, tell her you love her, tell her that you're sorry about having gone against her wishes when you brought the first snake home when you were younger and more belligerent, but that you sincerely appreciate her continued support of you and your hobby, despite her discomfort.

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I appreciate the apologies. But you're right - I don't know the OP's parents, and I don't know how you parent. I only know what worked in my situation. Going out and buying the snake with my money showed them that I was responsible enough to keep the animal. Perhaps the OP's parents would've reacted the same as mine, or perhaps they would've reacted more similar to how you would react. I'm sure OP knows his parents, though. Much better than any one of us. I did not say "the only possible thing you can do is go behind your parents backs and do something they forbade". In retrospect I didn't word my initial post as clearly as I should have, mainly because I'm on this app in my free time - in the middle of the night/early morning. So to clear things up - I DO not torture my mom with reptiles, nor would I EVER do such a thing. I strive for the world to be more educated about the reality of herpetoculture, not have scare tactics shoved down their throats. That said, my mom will always for the rest of life, feign "freaking out" when she sees a snake. Most of the time when I bring them in sight of her she goes "Ahhhh what are you doing with those slimy things" then laughs and pets a tail, or simply goes on her way. Even though I'm financially responsible for myself, I do still live under her roof, and therefore would move the snakes to my boyfriends house if she ever had a problem with it (which she doesn't). I'm in no way condoning negligent behavior. I'm not telling the OP to blatantly disrespect his parents, either. I didn't even read this whole thread, just a few posts. In my situation, I asked my parents to buy me a snake over and over and they said no. So I worked up the money and I bought everything myself. At 15 I worked around the house for money to care for my snake. I'm sure the OP will do something similar. I have many reptile enthusiast friends who obtained their first snake in a similar manner, whether it be by purchasing it themselves and showing pet-keeping responsibility to their parents, or simply buying it and hiding it because their parents would get mad. So, like I said. It's all situational. I knew my parents wouldn't care about having a snake in the house, even though they thought they were nasty devilish creatures (they now know they're harmless animals who play a vital role in the ecosystem and should be respected as any other animal), but on the other hand I'm sure your kids know rather well that you wouldn't tolerate an animal being brought into the house without permission under any circumstances. The OP also knows how his parents would react to any method he chooses -- that's why he chose to go the educational/research/proof route.
So I contract the double entendre of my original post. It seems the OP already got his snake (before my post?) but for any other kids reading: listen to your parents and don't get a pet without being able to care for it


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Originally Posted by Lizardlicks

@OP: Sorry about all the derails kiddo. You did the right thing, stuck to your guns, and demonstrated a lot of knowledge and initiative. It paid off now, and it will pay off again in the future. Congrats on your future pet! :gj:

@serpenttongues: I am sorry I snapped. The name calling was inappropriate. From the wording of your initial post, it sounded as though you got some sort of enjoyment from your mom's discomfort, and I don't hold well to people who would treat another human being that way. I still do not approve of your method, and am even more disappointed that you thought this was good advice to pass on to a young person.

Advice: go hug your mom, tell her you love her, tell her that you're sorry about having gone against her wishes when you brought the first snake home when you were younger and more belligerent, but that you sincerely appreciate her continued support of you and your hobby, despite her discomfort.

@Boomerang: When a grown person is advocating bad behavior, and encouraging a kid to take a course of action that could well endanger an animal, and permanently damage the trust between parent and child, then has the gall to call it "responsible," yeah, I get mad. When the person makes a reply talking about how funny they think it is when someone they should care about screams in fear and runs away from them, yeah, I get mad. Contrary to what you came into this place under the impression under, we're people. With emotions. From the tone of one of your other posts, you seem to have a problem with that.

If people reacting negatively to out right terrible advice or behavior is gonna be hard for you to deal with, maybe go hang out with some robots for a while. Now are we done derailing this thread?

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I also wanted to show him that his parents can, and most likely will, one day learn to respect snakes. While my mom doesn't want to cuddle them like a puppy, she still has a greater respect for them after holding them and whatnot. Yes, she does still say things like they're nasty/slimy/gross and whatnot, but that's just my mom. Whereas before she might kill a snake outside because it's "devilish", now she would call me and have me relocate it. She still wouldn't want to touch it/mess with it. Do you get what I'm saying? I'm running off no sleep and ten tons of coffee.




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