Mad Spitting Cobra

[psychocircus]

Originally Posted by SSSSnakes

I keep HOT's for educational programs I perform. I have been bit and I have over 33 years as a professional handler. My snakes are not my "pets", they are kept for a purpose.

As far as risks go, you face risk every time you walk out the door. My venomous snakes have bitten me once. I have had 3 major car crashes that threatened my life, that were not my fault. I rode a motorcycle for most of my life and took my life in my hand every time I got on the bike. Life is full of risks and if you are afraid to take some of them, then I guess you will live a life not worth living.

Originally Posted by mclund

I don't think anyone should have to justify why they want to keep venomous snakes. It is a personal choice. Florida regulates keepers through a permit system. For what it takes to get a permit, I would deem those people as professionals. I keep them as a hobby, that is my choice. I do not need anyone to decide for me what risks I expose myself to, as long as I don't endanger the public. Strict regulations, inspections and bite protocols are all a part of being a venomous keeper, at least in Florida. No disrespect intended Jim, but as Jerry said,"life is full of risks" and that is what makes it worth living.

Originally Posted by Mikoh4792

Even if the majority of hot keepers died by being bitten I would still want it to be legal to own hots. What you subject yourself to is your choice and I'm no one to tell you what's good/bad for you.

Even with drugs. I don't care how bad krokodil is, if people want to take a flesh eating substance let them.

The only time I would want myself or others to step in and intervene is when other people start getting hurt.(Ie. drug that turns you into a zombie and kills others, or if your snake gets out and kills the neighbors children)

Agree with all of this. Who cares what others do? I'd imagine it's rare for "pet" hots to kill people other than their owners. A hobbyist could be just as qualified as an experienced zoo keeper. It all comes down to risk/reward for the individual keeper.