I own a dozen snakes, all properly cared for with automated misting systems, controlled lighting, and vet visits when needed. However, a classmate who has never seen them is telling people I’m an animal hoarder. It really hurts because I take great care of my pets, and they don’t require as much work as, say, a dog. I don’t want people to think I’m neglecting them. What do you guys think?
You sound like you’re doing great with your pets. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise if they’re happy and healthy!
I’d recommend not talking about your animals in casual conversations with people you don’t know well. People can be weird, and it just takes one to cause a lot of unnecessary trouble. I’ve seen people get falsely reported as hoarders just for mentioning the number of animals they own. Keep detailed records of your pets’ care—feeding times, vet visits, and environmental controls. You never know when it’ll come in handy as proof.
@Sky
Totally agree, especially if your pets aren’t ‘normal’ ones like dogs or cats. People are much quicker to judge if you have reptiles or other unusual pets.
Branley said:
@Sky
Totally agree, especially if your pets aren’t ‘normal’ ones like dogs or cats. People are much quicker to judge if you have reptiles or other unusual pets.
I used to work in abuse investigations, and some people were mad I didn’t count large dogs as neglectful just because there were multiple. People can be so judgmental!
Branley said:
@Sky
Totally agree, especially if your pets aren’t ‘normal’ ones like dogs or cats. People are much quicker to judge if you have reptiles or other unusual pets.
It’s strange people are still so judgmental about non-traditional pets. I thought things had changed.
@Amari
More accepted doesn’t mean everyone’s open-minded, sadly.
Tell her to report you if she’s so worried. Animal welfare would back you up if you’re doing everything right. If she doesn’t, it’s just malicious gossip.
Avi said:
Tell her to report you if she’s so worried. Animal welfare would back you up if you’re doing everything right. If she doesn’t, it’s just malicious gossip.
Do animal welfare laws even apply to reptiles? I know some states have different standards for pets like snakes compared to dogs or cats.
@Brenner
I’m in the UK, so our RSPCA definitely covers reptiles, but I’m not sure how it works in the US.
Wow, what a jerk! We have 10 snakes, 6 turtles, and a bunch of other reptiles. Some we’re raising for a serpentarium, and others we’re socializing for display. They all have proper enclosures, heat lamps, and clean water, and we love them. Your classmate probably doesn’t even know what a snake needs to be happy. Don’t listen to her!
@Wil
Sounds like you’ve got a great setup!
Hoarding is about not being able to care for your animals properly, not the number of pets. It’s possible your classmate is afraid of snakes and that’s why she’s reacting this way. You’ve done nothing wrong!
@Amari
Exactly! It’s not hoarding if you’re giving them the care they need. Hoarding usually involves neglect, which doesn’t sound like what’s happening here.
This person doesn’t know what they’re talking about. If your snakes are healthy and well-cared-for, you’re doing something right! My nephew has raised snakes since he was a kid, and they can live long, happy lives with the right care.
Why does this bother you so much? She’s just some person who has no idea what she’s talking about. Can’t you report her for making stuff up about you?
Lyle said:
Why does this bother you so much? She’s just some person who has no idea what she’s talking about. Can’t you report her for making stuff up about you?
Yeah, this could hurt your reputation, especially if people believe her. You should definitely talk to a guidance counselor or someone about this.
You could either ignore it or offer to show her your setup and prove her wrong. If she keeps spreading rumors, that’s slander, and you could take it up with the school if it gets worse.
INFO: What kind of setup do you have? Some people use tiny enclosures, and that can look like neglect. Just making sure your snakes have enough space.
Val said:
INFO: What kind of setup do you have? Some people use tiny enclosures, and that can look like neglect. Just making sure your snakes have enough space.
They’re in enclosures that range from a 50-gallon tank to a 4x6 foot enclosure, depending on the snake.