Quote Originally Posted by reptile3 View Post
I think it's ok, they need to learn responsibility, with a parent present to help out. My daughter is only 12.5 yrs old, we have had out bearded dragon for 6 yrs, she helps socialize with him, feed him, give him baths. As with the Iguanas I have owned, she has always been interested. She is very well with reptiles and animals. I think she got it from me...LOL If I am sick, she will make sure lights come on, change water, feed pets...
I totally agree and I think it can be a shared responsibility and that makes it a family project as well.

There are, however just some people that refuse to get familiar with snakes or adjust to having them around, but handled with ease and patience, this too can break ground with so many people that have these fears and don't know why they do or don't understand the mechanics of raising a snake.

I really only have issues with some people and pet stores that sell a "Cute Little Snake" to a young teen without any information and then the small cute snake turns into a ten foot Boa like my Argentines and that's what is one of the main causes of concern with me that people unknowingly make a purchase with no idea what they are getting into or the responsibility it takes to handle and care for a large snake.

When the snake gets bigger than anticipated they are afraid to care for it and handle it and so many times these poor snakes become the victims of neglect and abuse. This is why I stress researching a snake before buying one, not only for the benefit of the person interested, but also for the long term best interest of that snake.