Finding a reliable vet in your area will go a long way towards calming your nerves. You can be as aware and as knowledgeable as possible, but you really need a good partner when it comes to animal care.

When it comes to prey items, your gut (and your nose) are your best tools. Have you seen how your shop is keeping their feeders? Do they look clean and well cared for? Just because they are selling little armies of peeing and pooping rodents doesn't mean it has to smell like it in there all of the time.