What should I do...?

Wow i don't suppose he's allowed out and about alone. Have him meet you somewhere within walking distance of him so he doesn't have to get a ride. have him put the snake in a backpack or something not so obvious. walking out of the house with a pillowcase might set her off.

I agree, get him to put it in a pillow case or backpack, maybe when he goes to school and meet him down the block. He can tell his mom it escaped and that will probably freak her out into not wanting it no matter what. Tell him the snake is still his and you will care for it until he moves out or something.....unless he is fine with you keeping it.

Id go with the ASPCA, they deserve it. :mad:

Talk to your cousin. Explain to him that the snake is starving and needs to be fed more, as well as, a constant supply of fresh water. Tell him that you are willing to take care of the snake for him. He is more than welcome to come visit when he wants to and when he gets his own place, and can provide proper care, then he can have it back. If he really cares for the snake, and knows that your aunt is being unreasonable, then he should be willing to help figure out a way to get the snake into better conditions. I don't know what kind of relationship you have with these relatives, but one thing to consider, before calling the ASPCA, is the potential for ugly family drama that might result. Have you tried introducing them to this website so they can do the research for themselves? Maybe print off a care sheet and some of the threads on feeding requirements might help some. I'm just saying explore all the options and call the ASPCA only as a last resort. Good Luck...

Your aunt sounds like a bright woman! I would call the authorities and have that poor snake removed. It also sounds like she can't raise a kid right either... He can't be home alone at 15?!? Some kids have their first jobs and are begining to drive at this age!

Wow you are easier going than I am...... I hope all ends well

This is my first post... but for the love of all things Holy... either threaten that woman into giving you the snake or call the authorities. Don't wait till middle of next week... do it today.

I just yesterday, took possession of a bp that the previous owner hadn't fed in two months because she was afraid it would bite her. :O She claimed the 12 inch baby was aggressive and mean. This little darlin' isn't even head shy and ate right away when I offer f/t yesterday.

Please.. take action quickly before this snake is killed.

If you aren't allowed over unannounced sounds like you aren't all that close, just call the ASPCA.... I wonder if she doesn't feed your cousin because she doesn't want him to get too big either?

That snake needs out of there. Your cousin and aunt are starving him. That's animal cruelty. Use calling the authorities as a threat and a last resort. I dislike the idea of going against a parental unit but in this case, your cousin sneaking the snake out and giving to you to care for, whether temporary or permanent, seems like the best solution short of calling the authorities if your cousin can't get the snake out or your aunt just refuses any sane thoughts.

I wish you the best of luck and please don't wait. Thank you for trying to get the snake out.

Your aunt, appears to be ignorant to many facts regarding BP's, I would print off a care / husbandry sheet and give it to her, before contacting the authorities. Then do what you have to do to ensure the animal is safe & well cared for.