While it is true that recently I told a friend (more on them in a bit) that I'd much rather attempt to take on a 12' alligator than a 12' reticulated python, I am more afraid of an angry dog or cat.
It's interesting how articles like this can go from stating something which is true, then take it to extremes. In this case, that little nugget of truth is the line stating "Being irresponsible and negligent with those kinds of animals is dangerous to themselves" and the owner (not so much with the neighbors, though. That's were the ignorance begins). At the time that I made my comment about rather trying to defend myself against a gator than a retic, I had just gotten done attempting to convince this person not to buy a baby alligator. Their motivations for wanting one were that they are "cute", "make good guards", "you can ride them", and my personal favorite "take it to school in your backpack." I tried to explain just why this is a bad idea, pointing out that these animals need warmth year-round (we live in Missouri, it gets rather cold, I somehow doubt her parents would be willing to construct a large pool in the basement, etc) and will become a heavy burden food-wise, along with the obvious safety concern for her, her family, and dogs once it grew up. Last I knew she is still planning to buy a hatchling. These kind of actions are what give large reptiles a bad reputation, making it hard for people to obtain some very rewarding pets and are prepared to properly care for them.
Sorry if this post falls under someone's definition of a thread hijack. I kinda needed to vent and this seemed like a constructive place to do it.
