Sorry, but I am also in the please do not get a snake group. We had a heart wrenching story not far from where we live where a pet snake got out and killed their child. Here is a point and I hope it helps. It would seem that part of her wanting a pet is to take care of it, have responsibility, and show affection. If you could talk to her and address these feelings followed up with a trip to the local animal shelter or Humane Society and explain that there are so many wonderful animals in need of her care and love, it may not discourage her at all, and instead make her even more determined to take care of her new (non-snake) pet to the best of her ability.