Hi everyone!

I had a question, I do hope it comes across right and I don't end up looking like a total moron here I've did some reading around on here and noticed quite a bit of negativity when it comes to purchasing herps from pet shops (saw a ton of posts about Petco but they didn't have a whole lot of info on why.) I've had my own bad experiences in the past with other venues, so I can understand that.

My question: Is there a/some significant reason(s) *not* to purchase herps (in my case, specifically fire belly toads) from Petco or a similar store? We've been considering it a lot lately but we live waaaay out in the boonies. Only place we have anywhere nearby animal-related is Petco (but I am more than up to the task of driving out of town if I must to get them if I have to.)

I was just wondering if the ill feelings were more on how the animals were treated in there or if they were more prone to health issues, etc.? Of course I understand no one can answer this 100% (as every case is different) but any feedback whatsoever on this topic would be great. As I said, I read around but couldn't get a whole lot on why.

Thanks a bunch!