Petsmart vs Breeder

[SuperGoKana]

I found a tortoise that seems perfect at a Petsmart a couple blocks from my house, but I've heard bad things about store bought. I've always bought animals from that Petsmart and they were fine (well one sneezed a lot). Should u scavenge all over Colorado to find a breeder or just grab one easily?

 

[Sulcata_Sandy]

Can I suggest a rescue instead? There are many of us here that rescue tortoises from bad situations or illnesses and are looking for loving "forever" homes. If you adopt a tortoise from a rescue group, like myself and many here, you open up space for another rescue, and the adoption fees go directly to the tortoises (food, lighting, medical bills, gas money to go get them).

I personally do not like to support big box pet stores, as the money goes to a large corporation. Rather, buy from a breeder who does this for love and is a true ambassador to the species, or help a rescue...all money well spent and not padding the pockets of CEOs.

 

[Yvonne G]

It's totally up to you. I've bought from pet stores in the past, from wholesalers, importers, etc. If that's the only way you can find what you want, then go for it. Just bear in mind that you MIGHT be getting an animal that's not real healthy. First order of business would be a vet visit and a de-worming.

 

[BeeBee*BeeLeaves]

Follow your heart. If that tortoise in PetSmart tugs at you and you keep thinking about it and you get there and it is still available, then maybe-maybe its journey was with you. I got my two Greeks there last year, did not walk in for that, went for cat food, but saw them, just knew I had to have them, knew nothing about them, Greeks? huh? Went through 2 months of hell with them (they were clearly shell shocked from their trip to us/USA from the Middle East), found TFO because of them, researching, help, what do I do, oh crap ... after 2 months, they finally responded ... and here we are. Love them!

Just follow your heart. Sometimes you have to saddle your own horse kinda thing. Only you know if that tortoise is meant for you. : )

 

[Cutva]

I was going to rescue, then at the pet store getting light bulbs I saw the perfect tortoise! I bought my bulbs and was leaving but.... I ran in and bought her and I am happy I did. I they are perfect then follow your heart and get the little guy!

 

[Sulcata_Sandy]

Awesome!!! I'm so excited for you! Name, pix, tell us everything [GRINNING FACE WITH SMILING EYES][GROWING HEART]