I worked for PetCo for 3 1/2 years. I was every specialist and also the dog trainer. I worked very closely with the Regional Companion Animal Coordinator and the District Manager for the DFW area ( I still have their cell phone numbers stored in my phone ). I also worked closely with the store vet. All I changed during that time and sucking up to the "higher ups" was that the beardies were no longer kept on sand. PetCo is a business and their products are animals and products for them. PetCo has a cooperate vet and what he says goes. He approves of how the enclosures are. If PetCo has a deal with Zoo Med for sand, then sand will be used in the enclosures. The reason why you see so many snakes in one enclosure is because the more they have, the more they sell. There is no room for separate enclosures. I assure you, there have been several who have attempted what you want to do. And I assure you, if you break store policy you will be fired. PetCo is super strict about following policy and there are no second chances. I'm not bashing you for wanting to try. But don't get your hopes up.