The exotic animal industry has unscrupulous sellers. This guide teaches you exactly how to identify reputable breeders versus scammers and irresponsible sellers.
The exotic animal market, unfortunately, attracts dishonest sellers. Here is how to protect yourself and ensure you get a healthy animal from an ethical source.
Green Flags â Signs of a Reputable Breeder - Willingly provides vet references and health records - Can prove captive-bred status with documentation - Has a live arrival guarantee in writing - Answers questions thoroughly and knowledgeably - Has verifiable reviews and social media presence - Does not push for immediate payment - Provides care information unprompted
Red Flags â Walk Away Immediately - Prices that seem too good to be true - Cannot prove captive-bred status - Pressure to pay with untraceable methods only (Western Union, gift cards) - No reviews or very new online presence - Refuses to send additional photos or videos - Cannot answer basic care questions about the species - No live arrival guarantee
Questions to Ask Every Breeder 1. How old is the animal and when did it last eat? 2. What are you feeding it and how often? 3. Has it been vet-checked? 4. Can you provide proof of captive-bred status? 5. What is your live arrival policy?