Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Step1
Ask other pet owners for recommendations. People who own pets can offer insight. Discuss which store they prefer and why. Oftentimes this information can steer you in the right direction.
Step2
Question store staff. Clerks must be knowledgeable about the pets in their care. If the staff cannot answer a question, they should offer to find another staff member who can. Ask several questions, and beware of vague answers. Reputable pet stores train staff to ask for specific details, enabling them to instruct their clients in proper pet care.
Step3
Observe the health of the animals. Coats should be shiny, not dull. Eyes should be vibrant and clear. Animals and fish must appear alert and inquisitive, without showing signs of illness. Look for runny eyes and noses, or watery feces in cages. Check food and water dishes for cleanliness, and overall hygiene of the cages.
Step4
Look for signs of overcrowding. Serious overcrowding is inexcusable. Each species must have its own cage. Guinea pigs, chinchillas and rabbits require large pens where they can run laps. Fish should have at least one gallon of water per inch in length. Excessively large fish, such as Oscars, require even more. A good pet store does not recommend fish tanks smaller than ten gallons, or sell male betta fish in tiny bowls.
Step5
Use your nose. Strong smells of urine or feces indicate a poorly kept establishment. Offensive cleaning agent odors can lead to respiratory difficulties in the animals. A reputable pet store has only mild, inoffensive odors.
Step6
Trust your instincts. If something appears off to you, it probably is. Question a staff member about your concerns. If the clerk does not give you a satisfactory explanation that eases your mind, find another supplier.
