I will admit that I bought my bp Xander on impulse--I didn't even ask my parents! I just brought him home.
But I am so thankful to have him in my life. I understand and am well aware that he cannot feel emotions such as love. However, I still care for him. I got him during a part of my life that I was lost and depressed.
Whenever I was having really bad anxiety or was very upset, I would take him out and he would calm me down. I realized that I had a passion for reptiles--for which I hadn't been passionate about anything before.
So yes, I care very much for my snake. My parents may never understand why he means so much to me nor will my friends. However, I got him during a really rough time and he helped me through it. I may sound crazy. I'm not sure.