Reputable breeder bought vs store bought?

[Aaron_S]

Originally Posted by Derek1

$100 freight is high, but you're in Canada so that might change the game. I wouldn't have a problem buying from a "pet store" if I can talk to the reptile handler and if he/she can provide me with info, ie. last shed, last eating, ect...I've only bought from breeders though.

I charge $125 for shipping anywhere in Canada. Yes it's that expensive. I've heard of $80 shipping but I don't use that company for some reasons I wish to remain with me.

[millertime89]

Originally Posted by Aaron_S

Depends where you're located. Yes there's stores I trust to buy animals from in my area. However, the stuff I look to purchase usually isn't in stores so I can't buy from them.

The thing most people forget about stores these days is a lot of breeders will wholesale to local stores. I have one store that I wholesale normal ball pythons to because I trust their staff to sell them with appropriate set ups and to the right customers.

It works out great. They bring in new people to the hobby with fantastic animals produced by a reliable breeder.

That's how several stores here are and I trust a few of them, mostly because I know the owners or managers and trust them to do a good job, but they're smaller mom and pop places as opposed to giant chains like Petsmart or PetCo. There's two smaller chains out here and I'll only go to a few stores from one chain but I won't set foot in the other's stores. When people would ask me why I would tell them but they didn't believe me. Then this happened...
Officers execute warrant at Thornton pet store

The owner of this chain is the owner Boas N Balls as well. This is the store that she personally runs.

[Aaron_S]

I have to stop responding before I read all the posts.

A lot of people are suggesting "head to expo/local show" and that's not a bad idea. However, I've been to many. The biggest in Canada on a regular basis and I rarely see a variety of animals. If there's something specific I have to find specific people. And when I do see something "different" it's usually wild caught and just not worth the time.

Honestly, if you have something in mind, do some research ahead of time and talk to people who may/will have it. If they are vending or just visiting a show you can usually get them to deliver for you.