In a recent viral video, a father named Jake Simmons shared footage of his four-year-old daughter lounging on the couch, engrossed in a TV show alongside their 12-foot-long reticulated python. This unusual pet scenario has sparked a wave of anxiety among many parents across the internet.
Simmons reassured viewers, stating, “My daughter is completely safe. All interactions between children and animals should be monitored. The idea that the snake is sizing her up is a misconception; snakes do not have the instinct to bite or consume humans.” He elaborated on his python’s dietary preferences, noting, “This snake’s favorite meal is rats—she refuses to eat anything else, not even rabbit. Trust me, I’ve tried!”
Though there’s no scientific evidence that snakes can truly “love,” pet owners often feel a strong bond with their reptiles. For many, the way a snake seeks warmth or displays excitement when it sees its owner may be sufficient evidence of a connection. Reticulated pythons are generally recognized as manageable pets when their needs are properly met.
While there have been rare reports of pythons attacking children, these incidents typically involve snakes that were not housed securely and were malnourished. Some experts caution against keeping such large constrictors as pets, suggesting that only individuals with prior experience should consider them. “Though they are not naturally aggressive, a python may bite if it feels threatened or mistakes a hand for food. Despite being non-venomous, these snakes can cause serious injuries,” according to various resources.
Simmons countered the fears by stating, “Our pythons are tame, bred in captivity, and have been socialized from a young age, receiving regular handling. In fact, there are more risks posed to children by common pets like dogs and horses than by non-venomous snakes.”
While many viewers instinctively reacted with horror to the video, a visit to Simmons’ YouTube channel reveals that he and his family have been responsibly caring for and interacting with pythons for years. The video’s reach has been astounding, with nearly 90,000 shares and over 40,000 comments, reflecting a wide array of opinions. Some viewers expressed disbelief, warning that the python’s behavior suggested it was sizing up the child, while others defended Simmons, remarking on the ignorance of such fears.
Simmons addressed the backlash by stating, “People and their misplaced anger can be quite overwhelming.“
This article originally appeared on a parenting blog that now focuses on broader family topics, including home insemination kits, which can provide families with alternative means to grow. For more information, you can check out our post on the home insemination kit and the authority on the subject, Cryobaby’s intracervical insemination syringe kit. For further insights into pregnancy and home insemination, UCSF’s IVF resource is highly recommended.
In summary, while the image of a large python with a young child may evoke fear in many, responsible ownership and supervision appear to alleviate significant risks. The ongoing discussion underscores the mixed emotions surrounding exotic pets in family settings.
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