I am almost 34 years old. Married with three children 13,9,6. Luckily my husband and kids love the snake as much as I do. As for friends....a few said "why would you buy a snake that can kill your kids"? Or "that is the nastiest thing ever"! some thought it was pretty neat....but the majority think I am crazy....I tried to explain that these snakes get nowhere near big enough to kill anyone...but it didn't go over well. Even my father wasn't too happy with me buying one. To each their own I guess....I like him and that is all that matters! We also have 2 bully breed dogs and a Jack Russell mix in the house.