I too am somewhat terrifed of spiders, however I did go to LLL and they let me hold a rose hair. One of the guys there told me he used to be terrified of spiders as well so he bought one and kept it next to his bed, he had it for about 5 years I believe...I am on the fence about getting one. I have thought about going his route to get over my fear, but I honestly don't think I'm ready to care for one.