Local Herp Shop Pros & Cons

[EverEvolvingExotics]

Hopefully this qualifies as business related.

In your opinion what are the best and worst things herp shops have going for them? I love the physical aspect of being able to go into a store and to look at reptiles. I love being able to actually talk to someone face to face, but a lot of employees lack information. The majority of products sold are either much too expensive or just not what I need. Many stores don’t give me a clean feeling, they are dirty, smelly, feces filled places. Don’t get me wrong there have been herp shops that have wildly exceeded my expectations but the majority has left me disappointed. I rarely see things like racks, thermostats, diverse feeders, temp guns, care sheets, the list goes on and on.

What would you guys and gals provide to make a pet store all around appreciated by a local herp community? I’m not just talking about products but resources and services as well.

 

[ImNotYogi]

It's good to have a chance to interact with an animal seconds before purchasing but the chances that it's well cared for are slim. I'm not going to pretend I know a great deal about any given reptile but most of the employees I've encountered didn't even know enough to BS me. Minus the good shops; your post has been my experience pretty much.

 

[Lutrani]

In Canada we have so few resources for reptiles and amphibians (especially for amphibians), that often these stores are the only way we can obtain animals. I can't count the number of times I've looked longingly at an animal available in the US, but which just doesn't seem to be available in Canada. So while these stores are not all the best they could be, for us here in Canada they are often the only option.

 

[katie_]

I think the perceived amount of bad petstores is blown out of proportion IMO.
We have several pet stores in the city I live in, and yes sometimes a reptile wont be housed perfectly..but I dont think they should be boycotted entirely. Its up to you wether or not you feel comfortable at your local pet store, and if you trust them enough to purchase an animal. Every store is different.

 

[Thorgecko707]

If you ever see a pet store employee caring for an animal in the wrong way, educate them. Remember to be respectful. Education is the only way to make a difference. Without these small reptiles shops we wouldn't have the hobby.
-Morgan Beebe