I would NEVER take my snakes out in public. It is very stressful to the animal and causes more then enough calamity for our hobby. People are people, and some just do not like snakes at all. We have to accept that whether we like it or not. Taking your snake to the mall was not a wise choice. I do not take my snakes outside let alone to a public place. To many peole where I live are afraid of snakes and I will not put my animals through the undue stress.