unfortunately there will be snake haters right along with us snake lovers, its an inevitable fact of life. but it doesnt just go for snakes there are people who hate any other kind of animal.
my dad is one that'll say "a good snake is a dead snake."
i hate that, but i know why he feels that way and i still do not like it despite the fact that i understand why he feels so.
but...i'd draw the line at him ever telling me anything like what your hearing. it just goes to show how little people know about these animals that they're so sure is gonna kill and eat everyone. that kind of ignorance and blatant disrespect really saddens me but i know i'm doing everything i can to be safe around my snake and although i allow my daughter to handle it i'm still ever watchful of their interactions.
my bf is not fond of my snake but respects the fact that it is mine and i'm solely responsible for it and although he says he wont let me get any more i'm sure over time he'll chill on that once he sees that i really do know my stuff with these animals.
now...i'll never own a snake that'll grow over 6 ft due to my having 2 children and a 3rd on the way plus the fact that i would not be able to safely handle a 6+ ft snake alone since i'm kinda on the small side.
so anyways,
i'm sorry you got a difficult brother in law.
congratz on your little one on the way.