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Questions to ask a seller

What to ask before you pay anything. A careful seller will be glad you asked, and will have questions for you too.

Reptiles and amphibians: what to ask

  1. Was it bred in captivity, and by you?
  2. How old is it, and what does it weigh?
  3. What is it eating, how often, and when did it last eat?
  4. When did it last shed, and did the shed come off cleanly?
  5. What temperatures, humidity and lighting is it kept in now?
  6. How was its sex determined?
  7. Does this species need a permit or CITES paperwork where I live, and do you provide it?
  8. Can I see the parents, or photos of them?

Whatever the animal

  1. Can I see the animal, and where it's kept, in person or on a live video call?
  2. Can I have copies of its health records, and the name of your vet?
  3. Is there a written contract, and can I read it before I pay a deposit?
  4. What happens if it falls ill in the first weeks, or it doesn't work out?
  5. How do you take payment, and is the deposit refundable?
  6. Can I contact you with questions after it comes home?
  7. Can I speak to someone who has had an animal from you?

Be wary of a seller who won't answer, won't let you see the animal (in person or on a live video call), or wants payment by gift card, wire or e-transfer to someone else's name.

Staying safe: how to spot a scamCheck a contract before you sign