How to Buy a Pet Snail

Buying a pet snail can be a complicated procedure. Depending on the species of snail you are interested in, certain requirements may inhibit your buying of a pet snail. Cut down on the hassle of purchasing a snail by familiarizing yourself with the various species legally available, their care requirements and where they are available.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Research species of snails that are usually kept as pets. An Internet search can provide you with specific information about snail species, their common names and their general care requirements.

2. Decide what species of snail you would like to purchase. Make an informed decision, taking into account who their primary caregivers are going to be. Young children will do well with those species that require less maintenance than other snails that require very specific care rituals.

3. Locate a pet shop that is an authorized dealer of the species of snail you are interested in. Certain species of snails require special permits to sell. Finding a shop that legitimately sells snails cuts down on the risk of purchasing an illegal or unhealthy snail.

4. Inspect the snails available for purchase for obvious signs of illness or injury. Lethargy, cracked or broken shells, wounds, swelling, cuts, grazes, extrusions, collapses, limpness and scars can indicate that a snail is unhealthy or poorly cared for.

5. Purchase a healthy snail.

6. Buy all supplementary material for your snail, including a habitat, food sources and miscellaneous items that are specific to your snail species.