I googled dog attacks, and statistically throw it back in every one's faces. I know the ratio of dog owners to snake owners is a tipped scale, but it's still a lot more on the dogs side.

I brought my mom around by telling her "I know people don't like them, and that's ok. I'm not asking everyone to like them, but I do. That should be enough to respect what I want in my life." Also, this phrase goes a long way "You have the right to hate my animals, but please don't take my right away to love them." Seems to tug at peoples hearts.