Home Depot carries the Acurite thermometers...and some stores may carry the hygrofarm thermostat, mine in my area didn't though. If you get a heat pad you will need a thermostat, BUT if it's only temporary you can get a $10 lamp dimmer from Home Depot until you can order the one you want. Temp guns are definitely helpful...I LOVE mine and is well worth the money, but like Otter said it's not necessary. I do recommend them though. Home Depot has them too for about $30 if you were interested.