I agree that the misinformation is disturbing and this style of flipping is definitely harmful to the hobby. What really upsets me is the misinformation given to those buyers looking to get into reptiles for the first time. They get the wrong information and then get discouraged when their reptile keeping experience doesn't go well and then decide not to get anymore reptiles or they find the appropriate info. later on and realize they were lied to. Then they get the impression that all reptile owners and breeders are liars and thieves.
As far as flipping in general, I see nothing wrong with it when done with integrity. Every breeder out there is a flipper to some degree. I doubt that there are too many breeders who have exclusively sold only what they have produced. I personally will buy animals strictly with the intention of resale if there is a profit to be made or if it can further my own breeding plans or collection. I think there is of course a set of standards that need adhered to though.
First, the animal you're selling has to be in good health to the best of your knowledge and if you don't have it in your possession long enough to know this for sure then you have to stand behind that animal in the event that it is found not to be healthy.
Second the buyer needs to be made aware of the origin the animal and also if you haven't had it for very long they should be made aware of that as well.
Third, I think you need to sell animals you are familiar with and have PROPERLY cared for in the past. ESPECIALLY when selling to the first time buyer. For example, I think hots are fascinating, but I'm not gonna flip those I know next to nothing about them so I wouldn't be comfortable advising others on their care.
Lastly, don't disappear after the sale. Whether it's a problem with the animal or simply a thank you email from the buyer, make sure you're just as available to talk to after the sale as you were before the sale.
I guess that was a long winded way of saying I support flipping when done with integrity and professionalism. Sorry for the rant.
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