Buying from a Show 

Many people buy boas from shows.  It is a good chance to see the snakes in person and to pick the one you want.  It is also a good opportunity to meet the breeder.  However, there are a few things you should remember before buying from a show. 
 

1. Do your homework BEFORE you go to the show or buy.  Learn about the breeders and the reptiles you are interested in.  Read our Boa Care Guide if you are interested in a boa.  Call some of the breeders you would consider buying from or send them an email, surf their sites and get a feel for their quality of animals and their knowledge.  Plan from whom you will buy before you get there.  Lastly remember, many morphs are incredibly popular and sell out via the internet as soon as they are born.  If you are going to wait to buy from a show, make sure the breeder knows this and will hold one for you.
 

2. While at the show, have fun. Look around, talk to the vendors. Please remember not all vendors are breeders. Have questions already thought out that you wish to ask sellers about the boa constrictors.  Also remember shows are crowded with people and there are many others who have questions so the breeders might not be able to spend as much time with you as you wish.
 

3. Whenever possible, buy captive bred. We can not encourage this enough. You are buying a snake that can live 40+ years. Spending a little more for a healthy, good looking and high quality boa constrictor will save you a bundle in the end. Avoid buying one from the guy who has a tank filled with boas. Make sure the boa is alert, healthy and free of mites and ticks.

4. Get the name and information of the person you are buying from at the show. Get his business card and the ID number he uses to track the boa constrictor.  Ask if you can contact him later so he can send you the history of the animal and any papers certifying the animal. We have too often heard of people who have bought a snake at a show and it will not eat, it has mites, ticks or in some cases it has died after a few days. When it is suggested they contact the person who sold them the animal, they do not know how to get in touch with them. Spend the extra money and get a quality snake from a quality breeder – and a business card!

5. After you have made your purchase and leave the show, be sure to take your new snake directly home. Too many times people decide to stop here or there and they leave their new snake in a hot or cold car and it dies. There are also times when the container is not secure enough and the snake escapes into the car.
Hopefully by being aware of these simple things you can avoid some common mistakes that others have made. Enjoy the shows, we look forward to seeing you there!