@ Kyle@theHeathertoft:
Oh man... I think your aunt has a legitimate phobia, and yes, she does seem slightly crazy about it. I believe my roommates (like many people), are misinformed about snakes and reptiles in general... in fact, my one friend thought snakes were "slimy" and was surprised when she touched my snake and he was dry!

Also, about the mini fridge... yes, it will hike up the utility bill, and as a student living off loans I really cannot afford it. I came to a compromise since my one friend said NO NO NO to rats in the freezer... we live near a pet store, so I'll just get a rat from there once a week