Most people will go into pet stores and not have second thoughts about how the animals living situation is. The small enclosures, the wrong or low bedding, or sometimes sick animals.

I work at Petco. I shouldn’t have to explain why ball pythons should not be on aspen bedding and not coconut husk. I shouldn’t have to explain why we sell cages for hamsters that they can’t live in comfortably. Or why we have certain animals in unlivable conditions. 

Almost all employees who work at a pet store and care for their animals can agree, we want whats best for the animals at the end of the day. After years of working here it’s tore me apart fighting for them. No higher ups will listen to anyone lower than our District Managers. And they don’t listen to us either. It’s a horrible thing when corporate cares more about politics and financial stability rather than its “ethics” slogan, “Animals Always Come First.”

They do not care what animals suffer or die at Petco. They care about what customers see and think. When I asked why our animals live in improper enclosures that barely meets needs, I’m told “it’s temporary.” Nonetheless it’s harmful. Not only to the animal but also the customer who thinks it’s okay to follow in Petco’s footsteps because we are the example for those who don’t know any better. I’ve spoke with countless customers who can’t understand why they can’t have 3 teddy bear hamsters in a 20 gallon tank if we have 3 teddy bear hamsters in something that could hold maybe 6 gallons of water. 

By signing this petition you are signing for all animals to get proper care at Petco. Ball pythons need eco earth coconut husk bedding. Solitary rodents and adult reptiles need to be separated.  

Also you are signing for Petco to provide the correct information for our customers. We provide pamphlets for each of our animals that are highly incorrect half the time. I nod my head in disappointment each time I read one. Customers should be aware what they need to do to provide the animal the best life. If it’s a solitary animal or an animal that can cohabitate with another. How long each tank needs to cycle for turtles or fish. What food is recommended and what housing is recommended by a PROFESSIONAL. Not a politician. 

All animals deserve a better life, in and outside of our stores.