I agree with "Not all petcos or chain pet stores are bad, and not all family owned pet stores are good." It all depends on the employees, in my opinion. FOR INSTANCE, in my town there is a "family owned" pet store and it is hands down the worst pet establishment you could possibly imagine. It's dusty, disorganized and very cramped. I hate how people bash Petco, because in all honesty they should be bashing the people working there. Not all Petcos are the same, no matter how much you want to believe they are because they're making bank. Guess what, money makes the damn world go 'round. Snake breeders breed different snakes to get the most exotic animal to sell for a butt load of cash. This is no secret. I know for sure that the Petco I go to has VERY knowledgeable people working there- more specifically the two guys who manage the reptile section. They know their stuff, and they make sure you know your stuff before they let you take anything home. Just my ...