Buying herps online?

[Topaz]

I was wondering if anyone has or thought about buying garters (and other reptiles) online. I found a few sites ( Exotic Reptiles For Sale! and Live Reptiles, Amphibians & Insects, Reptiles | Pet Solutions ) and was just curious on what everyone's take on this was.

We saw a few things that are incredibly hard to find in this area and weren't too sure on the ethics of it or condition of the animals.

[EdgyExoticReptiles]

i wouldn't do the first one because they dont post pictures of their snakes (they just get it off line) and sometimes they get the names wrong, not sure about the second one though

[GartersRock]

I personally don't buy from those commercial sites. I do buy online from private breeders though!
I have heard to many horror stories about those commercial dealers and breeders.

[crzy_kevo]

for all your online garter ordering needs go to Scott Felzer's Garter Snakes, specializing in aberrant garters

he can be pricy but you know that all his snakes are top quality

[Topaz]

Thanks everyone. Aside from more garters I'm also looking around to find a decently priced hognose. The local places are way over priced (around 200 for a normal.) My b/f really wants one, and I was hoping to get him one for xmas without him knowing about it (which is why online was an option, hehe.)

[GartersRock]

Just do a search for hognose breeder and see what comes up. I wouldn't support those big dealers. There are LOTS of hognose breeders.

[Topaz]

Thanks again!

[GartersRock]

No problem!!

[infernalis]

Look closely and ask lots of questions. Where do your animals come from??

If they are worthy of your trust, they will answer you promptly, honestly and matter of factly.

If you sense any BS like "I don't know I'm selling it for a friend" turn and run as fast as you can.

Ask about a health guarantee, shipping fees and live arrival guarentee.

Reputable dealers can answer all that to your satisfaction.

Almost everyone here has accidentally bought animals from less than honest people at least once..........

[Stefan-A]

Almost everyone here has accidentally bought animals from less than honest people at least once..........

But not everybody.