Hey everyone,

As some of you know I am new here and have been researching Ball Pythons for a few weeks now. I now know everything I need to know (or at least I think I do . However, having gained that knowledge, my opinions of pet stores in town have changed. There are 5 in Columbus, GA: 3 chain and 2 local.

I am going to post my experiences with them here. Also, I would like to know if there is a web site (either generic or reptile specifc) that has a formal review or report area where I could let others know.

Petsmart: (Chain)

I have a love-hate relationship with Petsmart. I love that they have the cheapest prices for food and supplies. I hate that b/c of that they killed all but 2 of the local stores. I also hate that they didn't have snakes.....until a month ago. And what is the only snake they have? That's right. A ball python. Based on what I know, they had everything right except for hides. There were no hides in the enclosure. Otherwise, the snakes seems healthy and active. Also, the employees don't have a clue. Apparently they have a part-time reptile person, who wasn't there at the time. And unexpectedly, they didn't have the cheapest price: $69.

Petco: (Chain)

I hate Petco. I hated them the first time I walked in when they opened last month and saw how they had their Iguanas (I owned Iguanas for 8 years with one reaching almost 6 ft in length). Well, their BP's were set up better the Petsmart. But like Petsmart, no one their had a clue about them. Their price: $59.

Petland: (Chain)

Of the chains, Petland was the best. They has a perfect setup but IMO has too many in one cage. There was a guy there that answered my every question. Price: $59.

Tropical Treasures (Local)

I now hate this place. They have no clue about reptiles at all. The iguanas were so sad. They were on sand. Sand!!!! It appeared that most of the reptiles were set up wrong. And they wanted $89 for there BP's!!! However, they has a full grown adult for only $108. If I were experienced with BP's I would have bought it to rescue it from the store. Absolutely pathetic.

Feathers and Friends: (Local)

This is by far my favorite place. I used to frequent them for my iguana supplies. They have the largest variety of snakes. The staff there answers every question and let you inspect and hold anything. They even warn you about certain snakes. I wanted to hold their albino burmese but the lady said he's new and a bit bity right now and didn't recommend it. I was even allowed to watch the BP's feed. And they had more than just babies. I'll be getting a baby though. Their price can't be beat right now. I can get the snake and the entire enclosure (10G) with bedding, heating, etc. for $100.

Well that's it. Another month or 2 and I will be getting one of these beauties.