Question: The axolotl I'm meant to be getting might have some problems?

[justin2107]

Hi all, I'm a new member here and have a few questions about getting my first axolotl. I have been researching and looking up a lot of information for a few months now, and have been cycling my tank for a few weeks. When I went to the local pet shop to get everything for my tank, I saw the little axie I'd be getting. He looked quite normal and healthy. He was small because he is young. He is white with feathery red gills. I went back a couple of weeks later and was a bit worried with what I had seen. His gills had turned white and were no longer feathery. He hadn't grown too much either. I was worried because of the conditions he was in. He was in a tank that was only 30cm's long (1ft), with gravel at the bottom as the substrate. In the tank with him was another axie and about 15 gold fish. I'm worried that something may be wrong with him and I'm not sure I want to bring him home with me if there is. Can someone please help and let me know if these things are normal? Thank you.

 

[Bellabelloo]

It seems to have been kept in the usual appalling conditions that many pet shops provide for axolotl. I think you would be purchasing a sickly animal if you go and buy it.
Try not to 'rescue' it, but have a look in the 'For sale' section towards the bottom of the page and see if someone is selling axolotl at the moment.

 

[Elise]

Sometimes it's difficult to find for new members so here it is, specific to your region: For Sale, Give-Away or Trade - FS: Australia or New Zealand at Caudata.org Newt and Salamander Portal

 

[justin2107]

Not to worry guys, I went to a different shop and got a beautiful gold axie with white speckles through him. Absolutely gorgeous!! Very healthy and kept in excellent conditions thank you for your help!

 

[Nachtmare]

congrats on the new axie...it is very sad reading stories of axies in a pet shop not having good living conditions, especially since they are considered endagered