The breeder where the Petsmart that I (unfortunately) work at is actually Reptiles by Mack, and I am appalled by how they ship their animals. I am also certain that even though they claim they only send out ball pythons that have eaten (I believe they claim three meals) they've never actually had a meal. Luckily we don't have snakes dieing on us, but they are usually sold severely underweight and our in store policy is to assist feed even if they ate for us the week beforeThe "breeder" is typically a BP farm in Africa. The hatchlings are mass imports straight out of the egg, which have never eaten before they get to the store.I've talked to my manager and coworkers about this, but it's still the policy.
In general our reptile care is pretty good. Correct temps, in range humidity, clean habitats, proper feedings. It's never perfect though, and I'm the only one in the store who really cares about the reptiles and cares to do the research to properly inform people planning on buying any animal in the store.
Unfortunately we're not allowed to ever refuse a sale. I can strongly discourage it, even tell people that their animal will die if they do as they plan, but I still have to sell them the animal. The most I can do is deny them the 14 day guarantee.
And I hate that they contribute so much to the HSUS. If you really care about animals give to your local SPCA, humane society, or even better--your local no-kill shelter and herp society.
I've only worked there since June and I'm already trying to find something better.
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