Petsmart

[Sasha]

I've officially become that frog/reptile person. Was at Petsmart today and everything was going nicely until I saw a honey bee toadlet in sitting in it's tank with it's legs all spread out. The sign said "New Arrival, $34.99", sadly their new arrival, the size of a nickel was dead. Also noticed the reason it could have been dead was that there was no water in it's dish! I called an employee over and pointed out to him that the water dish was empty and that I was pretty sure the toad was dead. He was apologetic and thanked me and then promptly removed the dead toad. It was very sad. Thankfully they didn't have any other frogs or toads and the other reptiles looked pretty good. I realized that I go to these placed now not to see what they have but to see what condition they are in.

[Heatheranne]

It happens, unfortunately. As amphibian lovers we want all of them to be cared for properly. You did the right thing.

[Heatheranne]

A few weeks ago one of the local pet stores here got in some red eyed tree frogs again, which they have had trouble with in the past. The young manager there was in a panic because the last bunch they got in ended up getting sick and then died. I rescued 5 of the 6 they adopted out to me sick.

The manager is really sweet and wants to do what's best. She wanted me to take them, but I can't. I already have a bunch. Instead of bringing them home, I made them a tank and a care sheet . So far, so good. They have sold 3 and gave out the care sheets with them. The others are doing fine. They just needed to put them in a larger tank with the proper temp and humidity and a few plants. Now they hopefully will not lose anymore and can teach the right care.

Here's a rough picture before the substrate, water bowl, and cricket bowl were placed.



This was her text back. And after the frogs were in.


I still believe education is key. I wish everyone was as conscientious as we are about our frogs care. I no longer feel bad about teaching the proper husbandry. I try a tactful and pleasant approach. Sometimes it works, and sometimes it's just about the money and a quick turn around for profit. Hopefully our good husbandry is spread through great forums like here .

[Sasha]

That's awesome Heather!

[Heatheranne]

Thanks .

It is so frustrating when they give bad care though, isn't it? Poor little guys are victims without a choice.

[Pluke]

Good job, Heather. If only all pet store managers were that open to information and advice.

[Heatheranne]

Thanks. I wish they were. If they'd let their egos come down and be open to our knowledge they'd even do better with their sales. Drives me bonkers sometimes.