What do I need to be watchful for?

[AReaHerps]

So I'm heading to a herp expo this weekend and I'm planning on picking up some of my dart frogs. One, because I love seeing the animal I want and buying it on site. Two, because I'll save $50 in shipping fees! This will be my first time buying darts so I'm a little nervous and ignorant. I want to stay focused on only getting CBB individuals. I'm a little worried that I won't have any idea if they are in fact CBB. Could you all offer me some advice on specific things I should look for and ask the vendors. Also what are some "red flags" that would immediately steer you away from a frog or vendor. I'm looking at tincs, auratus, and luecs. I guess it all depends on what's there and available.

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[DonLisk]

What EXPO you going to? Have a link to the Expo's website?

[AReaHerps]

www.herpworldexpo.com its in San Jose, CA

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[nos187]

Hopefully i am not to late but heres some advice.

I start by looking at the physical animals. Do they all look fat and healthy or are some super skinny?
If the animal stomachs look sunken in, its usually a easy walk away.

Then i look at their colors, do they seem vibrant or are they kind of muddy and dull?
Muddy could be a sign of hybrids ( or supplemental deficiencies) and i dont support that. I walk away at that point.

If all looks well, i then usually ask the breeder what line or origin are the frogs (that your interested in) from.
If he/she looks clueless, i walk away.

Then i ask about quarantine procedures and if they recommend doing it ( trying to act un-knowledgeable on the subject ).
Something like this , "So i read on the forums that all frogs should be quarantined and tested for parasites, do you recommend me doing that? (if yes) How do i do it properly?

If he does not recommend quarantine thats a pretty good red flag that he doesnt really care about the well being of the animals he is selling and you should probably walk away. I would.

Note: Just want to make sure im clear, just because you dont get fecal exams done on your frogs doesnt mean you do not care for them. I just expect from anyone who is selling animals to be very knowledgeable about the subject. I dont support frog flippers (people only in it for the money and not the well being of their animals).

At this point, the frogs should look fit/fat/healthy, Beautiful coloring and the breeder seemingly very knowledgeable about the animals + seems very caring for them. If all is well, then its time to make your frog purchase and you will have given yourself the best start you can to the great hobby!

Hope this was helpful,

-Kevin