Does PetSmart Or Petco Sell Axolotls Which Stores Sell Axolotls

Are you an Axolotl enthusiast wanting to add an Axolotl to your pet collection? Wondering where you can buy an Axolotl? Continue reading this article to know all about Pet Stores selling Axolotls.

When searching for a new pet, two popular pet store chains that often come to mind are PetSmart and Petco. These stores sell a range of pets and almost anything related to pets. However, Are Axolotls available in PetSmart or Petsco? Axolotls have gained popularity as pets due to their appearance and uniqueness. However, not all pet stores carry axolotls, and thus, it is difficult to find one when trying to pet an aquatic. 

Join us as we learn more about the availability of Axolotls in PetSmart and Petco. We will also discuss about the stores or places where you can get your pet Axolotls from. Stick till the end to have a clearer understanding of where to start when bringing home one of Axololts.

Does PetSmart Sell Axolotl?

PetSmart is a popular pet store chain popular for its operations and services worldwide. It sells a wide range of services and products for pets and pet owners. PetSmart deals in different types of pets, including small mammals, dogs, cats, fish, birds, reptiles, etc. It also sells a wide range of captivating aquatics and amphibians. However, PetSmart does not sell Axolotls, either in-store or online.

Axolotls are exotic pets that require specific. These aquatic salamanders thrive in a specialized environment. Axolotls in captivity need a suitable tank setup with proper filtration and temperature control. That is why, given their specialized needs, not all pet stores keep them in stock. In addition, the legality of owning axolotls can vary by state. Instead of looking out at PetSmart, it is better to reach out to exotic pet specialists, vendors, or breeders while buying an Axolotl. 

Why Doesn’t PetSmart Sell Axolotls?

PetSmart is quite profound in the pet retailing business, but it does not sell axolotls. The reasons behind not having Axolotls despite being one of the largest pet retailers are many. 

  1. Not as per PetSmart’s claim, but the business perspective of keeping Axolotls, in general, is very different than other pets. The market demand, associated cost, and potential profit of selling Axolotls don’t evaluate many benefits. Even though when Axolotls are very rare exotic pets, they aren’t in high demand nor have a high value. Therefore, many stores choose to sell pets like goldfish or hamsters instead of Axolotls.
  2. Secondly, the Axolotls aren’t legal in many countries and states, and that’s what has influenced PetSmart’s decision. Since Axolotls are going under extinction, they are subject to laws and regulations, and thus, reputable stores like PetSmart don’t get into the hassle of keeping them.  
  3. Thirdly, Axolotls’ habitat and tank mate requirements are very specific. These amphibians demand meticulous care and attention. From water quality to appropriate temperature and suitable tank mates, everything needs to be taken care of. Therefore, due to the challenges of maintaining Axolotls, PetSmart doesn’t sell them.

Does Petco Sell Axolotls?

No, like PetSmart, Petco as well doesn’t sell axolotls. These amphibians are delicate to handle, and they require rigorous maintenance. Also, they are illegal in states like Maine, Virginia, and California, which makes Petco possibly stays away from bringing them into business. Axolotls in large setups often die due to a variety of diseases, and therefore, a lot of large pet stores don’t keep them.

Why Doesn’t Petco Sell Axolotl?

Axolotls are not sold at Petco for several reasons:

  1. Firstly, Axolotls are illegal to sell in most parts of the world due to their near-extinct status. In addition, they are restricted in U.S. States like Maine, California, and Virginia due to concerns about Axolotl’s potential impact on local ecosystems if they escaped. However, there are some states where Axolotls are legal; keeping them still would require a permit and a range of other paperwork. 
  2. Secondly, Axolotls are delicate creatures, and they require specific care. For many stores, it can be challenging to maintain precise water temperatures, pH levels, and filtration systems. Some wild-caught axolotls can also carry diseases that can spread along to other animals in captivity. 
  3. Lastly, Petco and many other stores choose not to sell Axolotls since they are high-maintenance. If you keep an Axolotl as a pet, frequent cleaning, monitoring, and specialized diets, there goes a lot behind caring for them. Ensuring responsible ownership and preventing people from acquiring them without being able to provide proper care is the reason Petco is not selling Axolotls.  

Which Stores Sell Axolotls? Best Places To Find Axolotls?

While large retailers like PetSmart and Petco don’t sell Axolotl, there are several other places you can buy them from. For instance;

  • Check your local animal shelters if they have exotic pets like axolotls, surrendered by owners who can no longer care for them. You can also check out your local rescue centers to find one. Consider adopting an axolotl from a shelter or rescue center and provide a loving home to these unique pets
  • Check the specialist exotic pet stores and reputable online breeders for Axolotls. Many exotic pet stores often have axolotls available. Or the breeders sell a wider variety of colors and patterns of Axolotls online. However, while purchasing from a breeder, ensure they are reputable and responsible.
  • Contact your local vet for recommendations on reputable sources for buying Axolotl. You can also choose to attend animal expos and shows since private breeders often showcase their axolotls there. Events like these offer an opportunity to meet other axolotl enthusiasts and maybe buy one. 
  • Lastly, search platforms like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist. Here you may find pet owners who are willing to give away their pet axolotls. However, keep an eye on the risks of scams while doing so. 
  • Remember, axolotls have specific habitats and dietary needs, so before you bring them home, it’s crucial to educate yourself. 

How Much Does An Axolotls Cost?

Axolotls are rare and exotic, but they aren’t among those expensive pets. On average, an Axolotl would typically cost between $20 and $50 for a standard-colored juvenile specimen. The price may fluctuate depending upon Axolotl’s age, color, rarity of the morph, and the source they are acquired from.

Certain color variations, patterns, and morphs can be more expensive and may range from $50 to several hundred dollars. Besides that, Adult Axolotls, or highly sought-after color mutations leucistic, golden albino, or melanoid, can also increase a pet’s price to a large extent.  

Bottom Line…

Overall, PetSmart and Petco do not sell axolotls. Even in States where keeping Axolotls is legal (under permit), it is rare to find one in any of these stores. However, if you are really keen on keeping these unique amphibians, reach out to local animal shelters, specialized exotic pet stores, or reputable online breeders. You can also take benefit from attending animal expos.

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