Buy Small Animals — Online

Use a reverse image search on photos of the animal or copy and paste the ad description into a search engine to see if it has been reused elsewhere. 2. Legal & Regulatory Requirements

Look for breeders or rescues that follow best practices for their specific species. Indicators of a legal source include microchips, closed leg rings with unique IDs, and breeding certificates.

Verify that the species is not endangered. Species listed on CITES Appendix-I require special permits for captive breeding and trade.

Ask about the animal’s genetic background, temperament, and health history. A responsible seller should also offer to take the animal back if you are unable to keep it for any reason.

Research state and municipal laws, as some locations require specific permits for exotic pets.

Shipping is stressful for small animals; proper preparation is vital for their survival. WWF Responsible Pet Guide | Pages | WWF

Ensure you are legally allowed to own and import the species in your area.