Geckos from commercial Pet stores

[Leopardo Geckaprio]

I just purchased a gecko from *****, what is the general opinion on the quality of geckos from large chains like ***** and ********. Is the quality inferior in comparison to geckos from private breeders???

 

[Leopardo Geckaprio]

oops didnt know those names were banned, well im pretty sure you guys can figure out what 2 stores im referring to.

 

[OhMyGecko]

I have two from one of those stores and im happy with them. You prob. won't find the really cool morphs, but they still have the same silly personality.

 

[cyndi0502]

it really depends. there are some stores in those chains that take very good care of their reptiles, and some that don't. i would always go with a breeder though, because they are mostly known for the quality of their animals, and have more time to care for their animals properly and make sure they are all healthy.

go with a breeder unless you want the convienence of a petstore...if you do make sure they're housed on reptile carpet, have healthy looking fat tails, and make sure they're eating properly before you buy one.

 

[Wreptile]

Buying from big stores like that is less expensive, but you don't know what you are getting. You don't know what the parents were. They keep their Leo's on sand, which could have possibly impacted the gecko you bought.
Breeders are better all around. You know you are getting a healthy gecko, and you know what the parents are.

I am guilty of buying 2 of my Leo's at a chain store, so I'm not against it. I'd just rather buy from a breeder.

Hope this helps,
Hayden

 

[cyndi0502]

most keep them on sand, but the p3tsmart by my house keeps them on reptile carpet. it depends on the store, but you CAN find some that care for them decently.

 

[ajveachster]

A lot of times you will find the care large chain pet store animals are given is lower quality than that from private breeders. I'm sure you've seen the housing they are given. Usually it is smaller than what is ideal for a leo, and a lot of times you will see more than one in that small space. Also, you never know what the genetics are behind the animal you are getting. I admit I have some from those places. They grew up just fine. I don't believe I will ever get any from there again.

 

[Mel&Keith]

Those store names are blocked because no matter how many warnings we give out people refuse to follow the TOS of this forum and choose to discuss those store's husbandry choices anyway. I'll go ahead and close this thread so no one else gets in trouble.