Where did I say I was adamantly against responsible ownership?
I never mentioned dogs, just cats.
I already know people who keep a wide variety of “ hots”.
You can thank them for life saving antivenin and all the miracle drugs derived from snake venom, some of which you may already be using, unaware.
It’s amazing how many stories are on Google about snakes attacking their owners—especially when you have to assume that some of the owners (pet stores)are licensed to have these animals. Wild animals are no joke and individuals interest in keeping them at home ARE a joke.
My favorite is about the 8’ KING COBRA that escaped from his owner’s premises in Orlando, Fla last Sept 3. into a wooded area that is near an elementary school. The owner was quoted. “It’s horrible that this has happened,” he said. “It has been incredibly traumatic for me and my family.”
All I know is that even experienced and licensed handlers can sometimes goof up and the possible consequences for the public would be unredeemable if the worst happened. I know if the snake bit and killed my child he wouldn’t have experienced the worst traumatic experience of his life yet.
Just my opinion, but the ‘hots’ as you call them should only be owned by laboratories and zoos.