Reptile Expos: Questions and Answers
Attending your first reptile show can be overwhelming and exciting. I know I was not knowing what to expect, and several years later, I frequent them on the monthly.
A reptile show, while being exciting and lots of fun, can sometimes prove to be tricky or even nerve racking for a new comer. There are many factors that come far before just walking through the door. Location, finances, knowledge, and common sense are key, and to assist with the bigger picture, there are a few seemingly minor details that are crucial, and can make the difference between a good and a bad experience at a reptile show. Here are some questions I've received and heard asked in the past, and here some answers to go along with them!
"So, where should I go?"
Location is key, and trust me, traveling for an expo is a ton of fun, however I will suggest for a first timer you not take the next plane to the first show on the map you spot. You may be eager to insert yourself in the reptile show circuit, but it's important to keep a realistic idea of beginning and coming in reasonably. Traveling for a show often times holds a motivation and a huge expense, and normally you should wait to feel your way around your local reptile expos. Almost every state in the US has at least two shows a year, so you don't have to worry about missing out because of where you may live! Google "reptile expos near me" and you're bound to find something!
"What about the money situation?"
My motto is: cash and small bills always. As a frequenter of numerous reptile shows, I've seen many methods of payment, and although the shows are becoming more diverse in payment methods they are willing to accept, I have always preferred the old fashion cash for goods situation. It's easy, it's error free, and it's one and done. Also, I've found breeders and sellers prefer it, and you will never be turned down because of the age old problem "oh, I can't take that payment." Don't miss out on a great product and don't let a breeder miss out on a great sale, stop at the bank and withdraw a few bucks, or at least find an ATM.
"While we're on money, what's the pricing look like at reptile expos?"
Excellent is all I can say! You can often find supplies for fair, even very low prices. Animals are for the most part moderately priced, and more times than not will prove to be cheaper than pet stores or even private breeders outside of the reptile expos. Breeders tend to charge less in order to compete at large shows, as well as sell as much product as they can to break even on costs a lot quicker. Always try and ask for a deal. Most breeders are willing to take something off the original price of their animal, whether that be 5 dollars or 100 dollars. I've personally experienced both!
"Well, how much money should I bring?"
That's entirely up to you. Reptile expos can get expensive if you plan on purchasing an animal, feeders, and supplies. You can easily rack up a bill without even realizing it. It all depends if you have your mind set on bringing something home with you. If you know for sure that you will not be doing any big spending, all that you need to bring is ticket admission and money for some fires and Pepsi! Now, if you feel you may be interested in bringing something home or if you have your mind set on an animal, it is best to bring a chunk of money with you. I normally plan to take anywhere between 100 and 300 dollars with me to a show where I plan on expanding my collection of breeders, supplying my animals with fresh supplies, or stocking up on feeders and heaters. It really all depends on the goal you have set in place.
"Are animals healthy at these expos?"
An ill animal can be anywhere, including an expo. I have purchased animals before that I found out were containing of some sort of parasite or injury. Sometimes, these things just happen, and most times a breeder would never intentionally sell an ill or injured animal. Reptile expos are more regulated than you would think, and often times breeders want to have the best reputation they can. If an unhealthy animal is found to be sold, and the breeder was realized to be aware, they will be banned from future shows. Often times, the risk is too great for a breeder to intentionally sell unhealthy animals, and they will do their best to supply decent products. So yes, animals are usually healthy at reptile expos.
"Should I bring a carry home container with me in case I buy an animal?"
This is not crucial, but I personally always do. Breeders always have cases that their animals are in that can be used as transport, but sometimes depending on the breeder and the animal the space can be a bit cramped if you plan to remain at the show for a few hours after the initial purchase. I always bring a small Critter Cage with some paper towels on the bottom and a small water dish.
"What kind of animals are normally at reptile expos?"
Depending on the location and the type of show, you can find some real gems. At larger shows, you'll find an assortment of both common and rare geckos, lizards, snakes, and turtles. You can even sometimes see pigs, primates, rodents, cats, dogs, fish, and amphibians. At smaller shows, you'll find more commonly known reptiles, but even those shows can hold some surprises.
"What kind of people will I meet at reptile expos?"
Just like with anywhere, you'll click with some and clash with other's, but for the most part you'll find many like-minded people that share your interests and ideas when it comes to reptiles. You'll also find opportunities to meet experienced breeders and educators that will widen your horizon when it comes to what you know.
"Anything else I should know about reptile expos?"
Not much else! Reptile expos are fun, educational, and wonderful to attend, and once you've been to one you'll want to go to a million other's! They're addicting and are an excellent way to network with other breeders and enthusiasts. As long as you're considerate and thoughtful of your motivations, finances, and plans when attending a reptile expo, you'll have a rewarding and amazing experience!
