Cassandra adored her pet python, Reggie, mistaking his habit of curling beside her and watching her closely as affection. Feeling lonely, she started letting him sleep on her bed to “bond,” even as he grew more restless and stopped eating.

Worried, she took Reggie to the vet. An ultrasound showed his stomach was completely empty, unusual for a snake his size. When the vet learned Reggie often stretched out along her body at night, he warned that large constrictors can fast before attempting a big meal.

Shaken, Cassandra struggled to accept the advice: despite her attachment, Reggie was a wild animal with powerful instincts, and co-sleeping posed a serious risk. The vet urged her to change the sleeping setup and consider rehoming.

Heartbroken but resolute, Cassandra contacted an exotic-animal rescue and found Reggie a safe, appropriate home—then said a difficult goodbye.