Her husband kept a 10' python (or maybe it was a boa constrictor) as a pet. He would bring it out to the parish picnics and other events, and let the kids take pictures with it. I have a photo somewhere of me and six other smiling 2nd graders with the python draped across our shoulders.

At some point a few years later the python constricted around the guy's neck and killed him. Our organist found him at home, dead on the bedroom floor.

I don't know if this story has any relevance to your situation.