If you’re an animal lover, you’ve probably heard of the puppy mill problem. This leads many people to seek out individual breeders instead of visiting the pet store for their furry friend, but what about other animals. Where do the hamsters at the pet store come from?

Unfortunately, the situation for smaller animals isn’t much better than larger ones. Some stores get their animals from animal mills where they are often maltreated. Other stores, in contrast, source their hamsters from smaller breeders. That’s why it’s important to ask the pet store where they get their animals.

If you aren’t sure where the pet store gets their animals, see if you can find breeders in your area. You may also be able to adopt a hamster from your local animal shelter. For help finding your furry new friend, plan a visit with your veterinarian Los Gatos, CA.