Daily Times

Sir: Reptiles. The very word conjures up a variety of responses, ranging from “Gross” to “Way cool!” Fueled in part by changes in international wildlife importation laws, the resurgence of interest in dinosaurs and reptiles has been the fastest-growing segment of the pet market but popularity has its price. The strangest yet most popular pet has to be the python. Snakes are fascinating and with regular handling can be quite tame. However, snakes are obviously not the right pets for everyone. They have unique requirements and should only be kept by those with a commitment to understand and meet their needs. They are very difficult to handle and maintain because, in keeping these sorts of pets, human lives are highly at risk. Although giant pythons have been involved in fewer than 10 fatalities in the past decade — the rate is higher for human deaths involving horses and dogs — these tragic accidents could have been prevented had owners practiced proper procedures. It is urged that people think before purchasing such high maintenance and hazardous pets.

MARYAM RAZA

Karachi