Its sad but killing a harmless snake minding his own business doesn't count as animal abuse very often but hitting a dog that attacks you will get charges put on you. I don't think people consider snakes to have feelings. Why don't they fine people for killing snakes? They would fine us for killing a deer without a permit right? Does a snake not have feelings like a deer does? Does a snake not contribute to the eco system? They sure do!!!
Sorry, I had to rant