It's like the people that own boa constrictors and are surprised when their child ends up missing

A South Florida man nearly died this weekend after being stung by a rare Vietnamese centipede considered to have one of the most toxic stings in the world, according to a Local 6 News report.

Authorities said the man was changing the water bowl of the 7-inch Vietnamese centipede he was keeping as a pet when it quickly stung his hand.

The victim, who was not identified, was in stable condition at Baptist Hospital in South Florida, according to a report.