Guide to purchasing Axolotls

Guide to purchasing Axolotls

With axolotls becoming more popular than ever. It is important that people only purchase their new pets from a reputable breeder or rescue. With more and more people joining in on the axolotl hobby, more and more babies are being born and sold with little to no background information. This in turn damages an already damaged breeding line. Incorrect breading also lead to birth defects and serious health issues.

So how do you know that the axolotl you are looking for is happy, healthy and the correct size to move on?

• First and foremost, don’t purchase eggs, Raising babies is a huge commitment and one that shouldn't be taken lightly or performed without experience.

• A reputable breeder or rescue ( such as ourselves) will be happy to answer any questions you have regarding axolotls, both before you purchase or adopt your new pet and after. They'll give you as much background information on the animal as they can. Rescues often arrive with very little background information, so bear this in mind. They will also be honest and open with any injuries the animal has been treated for, along with any health issues they have had.

• Many large axolotl rescue pages will have information regarding reputable breeders and rescues, such as this one https://www.facebook.com/groups/175106810448531/search/?q=breeders

• If you are purchasing a baby, bear in mind that the baby needs to be a minimum of 3” in length before it is safe to be rehomed. A good way of determining if the axolotl is a good size is the ability to see all 4 limbs clearly. Smaller axolotl limbs will still have a see-through appearance, these are too small for rehoming. If you become aware of people selling animals who are too small please let us know.

• The axolotl should look plump, and its body should be the same width as its head. The gills should look fluffy and bright.

• Don’t buy from pet stores. Some, not all, have money in mind as opposed to the animals best interests and they often sell to inexperienced owners with incorrect information.

• Research, do as much research as you possibly can, this way you will be prepared and knowledgeable enough to notice if the axolotl is happy and healthy before you purchase him/her.

• Rescues will not sell two adult axolotls of opposite sexes even if they will be housed separately, as there is still potential for the animals to be bred. Incorrect and inbreeding can leave to deformities and serious health issues in Axolotls. So whilst it may seem exciting to try and raise your own, please refrain from doing so.

• Rescues and breeders should explain to you, that if you are purchasing two or more animals, that axolotls cant be sexed until they are around 12 months olds (sometimes older) so you have to be prepared to separate them into same-sex groups.

• Make sure you ask what the axolotl’s current diet is. They should be eating either, blood worms, earthworms or pellets, sometimes a mixture.

Most importantly don't be afraid to ask questions, this is probably the best way to determine whether or not the breeder or rescue is a professional service.

As always please contact us if you have any questions.

Regards

Lana & Raveca