I took Allure out into public for the first time. I know from posting pictures on FB and in my photo class that some people are pretty freak about snakes. Well I took him into Lowe's where I work at to show him to certain coworkers and to buy seeds. I wasn't too sure what kind of seeds I wanted so I was browsing. Mainly I wanted to show my garden buddies Allure and all the cashiers, loaders, and garden associates touched him and asked questions. I had several customers approach me with questions and it was fun to answer them. Several people were a little scared to come near him but asked questions and showed interest. And several people came up and touched and held him.

Well inside when I was looking as seeds there were several people (mostly my coworkers) that jumped away when they realized he was on my arm. My coworkers inside the store were the most reactive. But that's ok because us garden people are cooler (I'm a garden cashier usually) and like snakes. One of my head cashiers told me that someone complained about me having him in the store. Seriously? I'm just freaking holding him while I shop. I'm not shoving him in people's faces or trying to make his presence known. He just happened to be gripping my arm and chilling while I looked at the seed racks. People bring dogs, cats, and even parrots in all the time. They make noise, messes, get in the way, run up to people, cause allergies, etc. I'm holding a snake that is very friendly, quiet, and sitting on my arm not bothering anyone or doing anything to draw attention. I'd better not hear from work about the complaint either because I'm not working today and they do not approach other customers about their pets. Dogs have always been allowed in the store.

It's just so disappointing the reaction some people give. At least come up and ask questions, or hold one for a minute before you freak out. Once people hold or touch one they realize it's no big deal. It just irritates me when people don't give them a chance. So after this I think I will bring him out in public more. I think the big thing is people don't really have the opportunity to be around them and experience them for themselves, so they go off of media and their own fears and assumptions.