What Pets Does PetSmart Sell: A Comprehensive Guide

PetSmart is a leading pet retailer, and understanding What Pets Do Petsmart Sell is crucial for prospective pet owners. This guide, brought to you by PETS.EDU.VN, provides an in-depth look at the animals available, the care they require, and how to make the right choice for your lifestyle. Choosing the right pet is a big decision. With the wide variety of animals, pet supplies and services available at PetSmart, it is important to be well informed to ensure the health and wellbeing of your new pet and a happy relationship for years to come.

1. Overview of Pets Available at PetSmart

PetSmart offers a variety of pets, each with unique needs and characteristics. It’s essential to understand these differences to provide proper care.

Fish: A wide selection of freshwater and saltwater fish, along with aquarium supplies.
Small Pets: This category includes hamsters, guinea pigs, gerbils, rats, mice, and chinchillas.
Birds: Parakeets, canaries, finches, and occasionally other bird species.
Reptiles: Lizards (such as bearded dragons and geckos), snakes (like corn snakes), turtles, and amphibians (frogs).
Other: Some locations may offer invertebrates like tarantulas or scorpions.

2. Fish: Aquatic Companions

Fish are a popular choice for pet owners, offering a calming presence and a relatively low-maintenance lifestyle. However, different fish species have vastly different needs.

2.1 Freshwater Fish

Popular Species: Guppies, tetras, bettas (Siamese fighting fish), goldfish, and plecos.
Tank Requirements: Tank size depends on the species. Bettas need at least 5 gallons, while goldfish require much larger tanks (20 gallons for one, 10 gallons per additional goldfish).
Water Parameters: Temperature, pH, and hardness levels are crucial. Research specific requirements for your chosen species. Regular water testing is essential.
Care Tips: Regular water changes (25% weekly), proper filtration, and appropriate diet are key. Avoid overfeeding, as it can lead to water quality issues.

2.2 Saltwater Fish

Popular Species: Clownfish, damsels, gobies, and blennies.
Tank Requirements: Saltwater tanks are more complex and require larger volumes (minimum 30 gallons).
Water Parameters: Maintaining salinity, pH, and specific gravity is vital. Protein skimmers and specialized filtration are often necessary.
Care Tips: Regular testing of water parameters, careful acclimation of new fish, and a varied diet are essential. Saltwater tanks require more experience and commitment.

2.3 Fish Care Essentials

Essential	Description	Considerations
Aquarium	Provides a habitat for fish; comes in various sizes and materials.	Choose the right size for the species. Glass or acrylic? Consider placement (weight).
Filtration System	Removes waste and maintains water quality.	Mechanical, chemical, and biological filtration are important. Consider filter flow rate.
Heater	Maintains the correct water temperature.	Select the appropriate wattage for the tank size. Use a reliable thermostat.
Lighting	Provides essential light for plant growth and fish health.	Different species have different lighting needs. LED lights are energy-efficient.
Water Conditioner	Removes chlorine and chloramine from tap water.	Essential for preparing tap water for aquarium use.
Fish Food	Provides essential nutrients.	Choose food formulated for the specific species. Flakes, pellets, and frozen foods are available.
Decorations	Provide hiding places and enrichment.	Ensure decorations are safe and non-toxic. Avoid sharp edges.
Testing Kits	Measure water parameters (pH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate).	Regular testing is crucial for maintaining water quality.
Net	For safely transferring fish.	Use a soft mesh net to avoid damaging fins.
Gravel/Substrate	Provides a surface for beneficial bacteria to grow.	Choose a substrate appropriate for the species. Gravel or sand?

3. Small Pets: Pocket-Sized Companions

Small pets can be wonderful companions, but they also require specific care and attention.

3.1 Hamsters

Species: Syrian (Golden), Dwarf Campbell’s, Dwarf Winter White, Roborovski.
Housing: Wire or plastic cages with solid bottoms. Syrian hamsters need a minimum of 450 square inches of floor space. Dwarf hamsters need at least 360 square inches.
Diet: Commercial hamster food supplemented with fresh vegetables and occasional treats.
Care Tips: Provide a running wheel, chew toys, and nesting material. Hamsters are nocturnal, so respect their sleep schedule.

3.2 Guinea Pigs

Housing: Large cages with solid bottoms. A minimum of 7.5 square feet of space for one guinea pig, and 10.5 square feet for two.
Diet: High-quality guinea pig pellets, fresh hay (Timothy hay is ideal), and daily fresh vegetables (especially leafy greens).
Care Tips: Guinea pigs are social animals and thrive in pairs or small groups. They require daily handling and interaction. Vitamin C supplementation is essential.

3.3 Gerbils

Housing: Glass or plastic tanks with a wire mesh lid. Minimum 360 square inches of floor space for two gerbils.
Diet: Commercial gerbil food supplemented with fresh vegetables and occasional seeds.
Care Tips: Gerbils are social animals and should be kept in pairs or small groups. They enjoy digging and burrowing, so provide plenty of bedding.

3.4 Rats and Mice

Housing: Wire cages with solid or mesh bottoms. Rats need a minimum of 2 cubic feet of space per rat. Mice need at least 1 cubic foot of space per mouse.
Diet: Commercial rat or mouse food supplemented with fresh vegetables, fruits, and occasional treats.
Care Tips: Rats are highly intelligent and social animals that enjoy interaction and training. Mice are more timid but can be rewarding pets with proper handling.

3.5 Chinchillas

Housing: Multi-level wire cages with solid bottoms. A minimum of 4 square feet of floor space and at least 3 feet tall is recommended.
Diet: Commercial chinchilla pellets, fresh hay (Timothy hay is ideal), and occasional treats.
Care Tips: Chinchillas require dust baths several times a week to keep their fur clean and healthy. They are sensitive to heat and humidity, so maintain a cool environment.

3.6 Essential Supplies for Small Pets

Pet Type	Housing	Food	Enrichment	Health & Hygiene
Hamsters	Cage (450 sq in min), bedding, house	Hamster pellets, fruits, vegetables	Wheel, toys, chews	Spot cleaning, bedding changes
Guinea Pigs	Cage (7.5 sq ft min), bedding, hideout	Guinea pig pellets, hay, vegetables	Toys, tunnels, social interaction	Spot cleaning, bedding changes, nail trims
Gerbils	Tank (360 sq in min), bedding, house	Gerbil pellets, seeds, vegetables	Wheel, toys, chews, sand bath	Spot cleaning, bedding changes
Rats	Cage (2 cu ft min), bedding, hammock	Rat blocks, fruits, vegetables	Toys, tunnels, social interaction, training	Spot cleaning, bedding changes
Mice	Cage (1 cu ft min), bedding, house	Mouse pellets, seeds, vegetables	Wheel, toys, chews	Spot cleaning, bedding changes
Chinchillas	Cage (4 sq ft min), bedding, hideout	Chinchilla pellets, hay	Dust bath, toys, chews, multi-level cage	Dust bath, spot cleaning, bedding changes

4. Birds: Feathered Friends

Birds can be delightful and intelligent companions, offering a variety of personalities and vocalizations.

4.1 Parakeets (Budgies)

Housing: Cages should be large enough for flight. A minimum of 18 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 18 inches high is recommended for one parakeet.
Diet: Commercial parakeet seed mix supplemented with fresh vegetables, fruits, and occasional millet sprays.
Care Tips: Parakeets are social birds and thrive with interaction. Provide toys, perches of varying sizes, and opportunities for supervised flight outside the cage.

4.2 Canaries

Housing: Similar to parakeets, cages should be large enough for flight. A minimum of 24 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 18 inches high is recommended.
Diet: Commercial canary seed mix supplemented with fresh vegetables and occasional treats.
Care Tips: Canaries are known for their singing. Provide a quiet environment and a varied diet to promote healthy vocalization.

4.3 Finches

Housing: Flight cages are ideal for finches. A minimum of 30 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 18 inches high is recommended for a pair of finches.
Diet: Commercial finch seed mix supplemented with fresh vegetables and occasional treats.
Care Tips: Finches are social birds and should be kept in pairs or small groups. They enjoy flying and hopping, so provide ample space.

4.4 Essential Bird Care Products

Product Category	Description	Key Considerations
Bird Cage	Provides a safe and secure environment for birds, allowing them space to move around and engage in natural behaviors.	Size: Choose a cage large enough for the bird to fully extend its wings and fly short distances. Bar Spacing: Ensure bar spacing is appropriate for the species to prevent escape or injury. Material: Opt for non-toxic materials that are easy to clean.
Bird Food	Provides essential nutrients for birds, including seeds, pellets, fruits, and vegetables.	Type: Select food formulated for the specific species. Freshness: Ensure food is fresh and free from pests. Variety: Offer a varied diet to meet all nutritional needs.
Perches	Provide birds with a place to rest and exercise their feet.	Material: Use natural wood perches of varying diameters to promote foot health. Placement: Position perches at different heights within the cage.
Toys	Provide mental stimulation and prevent boredom.	Type: Offer a variety of toys, such as swings, ladders, bells, and shreddable toys. Safety: Ensure toys are bird-safe and free from small parts that could be ingested. Rotation: Rotate toys regularly to keep the bird engaged.
Food and Water Dishes	Provide clean and accessible sources of food and water.	Material: Choose non-toxic and easy-to-clean materials. Placement: Position dishes away from perches to prevent contamination. Type: Consider using gravity feeders or water bottles to ensure a constant supply.
Cage Liners	Line the bottom of the cage to absorb waste and make cleaning easier.	Type: Use paper towels, newspaper, or commercially available cage liners. Safety: Avoid using scented or chemically treated liners.
Bird Baths	Provide birds with a way to clean their feathers and maintain hygiene.	Type: Offer a shallow dish of water or a commercially available bird bath. Cleanliness: Keep the water clean and change it daily.

5. Reptiles and Amphibians: Scaly and Slimy Friends

Reptiles and amphibians can be fascinating pets, but they require specialized care and knowledge.

5.1 Lizards

Popular Species: Bearded dragons, leopard geckos, crested geckos.
Housing: Glass terrariums with appropriate substrate, heating, and lighting.
Diet: Varies depending on species. Bearded dragons eat insects and vegetables. Leopard geckos eat insects. Crested geckos eat commercially available gecko diets and fruit.
Care Tips: Research specific temperature, humidity, and lighting requirements for your chosen species. Provide UVB and UVA lighting for diurnal (day-active) lizards.

5.2 Snakes

Popular Species: Corn snakes, ball pythons.
Housing: Secure enclosures with appropriate substrate, heating, and hiding places.
Diet: Frozen/thawed rodents. Feeding frequency depends on the snake’s age and size.
Care Tips: Snakes require specific temperature gradients within their enclosures. Handle with care and respect.

5.3 Turtles

Popular Species: Red-eared sliders, painted turtles.
Housing: Aquatic tanks with a basking area.
Diet: Commercial turtle pellets, insects, and vegetables.
Care Tips: Turtles require UVB and UVA lighting for shell health. They also need a clean and filtered aquatic environment.

5.4 Amphibians

Popular Species: Frogs (e.g., Pacman frogs, tree frogs), salamanders.
Housing: Humid terrariums with appropriate substrate, hiding places, and water sources.
Diet: Insects (crickets, mealworms).
Care Tips: Amphibians require specific humidity levels and temperatures. Handle with care, as their skin is sensitive.

5.5 Reptile and Amphibian Habitat Essentials

Habitat Component	Description	Considerations
Terrarium/Vivarium	A glass or plastic enclosure that provides a controlled environment for reptiles and amphibians.	Size: Choose a size appropriate for the species’ adult size and activity level. Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent the buildup of harmful gases. Security: The enclosure must be secure to prevent escapes.
Substrate	The material that covers the bottom of the enclosure.	Type: Select a substrate appropriate for the species’ natural habitat (e.g., sand for desert reptiles, coconut fiber for tropical amphibians). Safety: Ensure the substrate is non-toxic and digestible if accidentally ingested. Cleanliness: Replace or clean the substrate regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria and fungi.
Heating	Provides a heat source to maintain the appropriate temperature gradient within the enclosure.	Type: Use heat lamps, ceramic heat emitters, or heat mats. Placement: Position the heat source to create a temperature gradient, allowing the animal to thermoregulate. Safety: Use a thermostat to prevent overheating.
Lighting	Provides essential light for reptiles and amphibians, including UVB and UVA radiation for certain species.	Type: Use UVB and UVA bulbs specifically designed for reptiles and amphibians. Duration: Provide a consistent day/night cycle. Placement: Position the lights at the appropriate distance from the animal.
Hides	Provide secure hiding places for reptiles and amphibians, reducing stress and promoting natural behavior.	Type: Use commercially available hides or create your own using rocks, logs, or plants. Size: Choose a hide that is appropriately sized for the animal. Placement: Place hides in different areas of the enclosure to provide a range of temperatures and humidity levels.
Water Dish	Provides a source of fresh water for drinking and soaking.	Size: Choose a size appropriate for the species. Depth: Ensure the water is shallow enough to prevent drowning. Cleanliness: Clean the water dish regularly.
Decorations	Enhance the appearance of the enclosure and provide enrichment for reptiles and amphibians.	Type: Use rocks, logs, plants, and other natural or artificial decorations. Safety: Ensure decorations are non-toxic and free from sharp edges. Arrangement: Arrange decorations to create a natural and stimulating environment.
Humidity Control	Maintaining proper humidity levels is crucial for many reptiles and amphibians.	Methods: Use a humidifier, misting system, or wet substrate to increase humidity. Monitoring: Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels. Adjustments: Adjust humidity levels as needed based on the species’ requirements.

6. Responsible Pet Ownership

Owning any pet is a significant responsibility. Here are some key considerations:

Commitment: Pets require daily care, attention, and financial resources.
Research: Thoroughly research the specific needs of your chosen species.
Environment: Provide a safe and enriching environment that meets the pet’s physical and psychological needs.
Veterinary Care: Regular checkups and vaccinations are essential for maintaining your pet’s health.
Legal Considerations: Be aware of local laws and regulations regarding pet ownership.

7. PetSmart Services

PetSmart offers a range of services to support pet owners:

Grooming: Professional grooming services for dogs and cats.
Training: Dog training classes and private lessons.
Veterinary Care: In-store veterinary clinics (Banfield Pet Hospital).
Adoption: Partnering with local shelters to facilitate pet adoptions.
Pet Hotel: Boarding services for dogs and cats.

8. Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right pet is a personal decision. Consider the following:

Lifestyle: Do you have the time and resources to care for a pet?
Space: Do you have enough space for the pet to live comfortably?
Allergies: Are you or anyone in your household allergic to animals?
Experience: Do you have experience caring for the chosen species?
Commitment: Are you prepared to commit to the pet for its entire lifespan?

9. Ethical Considerations

It’s important to consider the ethical implications of pet ownership. Support responsible breeders and adoption agencies. Avoid purchasing animals from sources that prioritize profit over animal welfare.

10. How PETS.EDU.VN Can Help

At PETS.EDU.VN, we understand the importance of providing accurate and reliable information about pet care. We offer in-depth articles, guides, and resources to help you make informed decisions about pet ownership. Whether you’re a first-time pet owner or an experienced animal lover, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Comprehensive Guides: Access detailed guides on various pet species, covering everything from housing and diet to health and behavior.
Expert Advice: Get expert advice from veterinarians, trainers, and other pet care professionals.
Community Forum: Connect with other pet owners in our community forum to share tips, ask questions, and get support.
Service Directory: Find local pet care services, including veterinarians, groomers, and trainers.

Considering adding a new member to your family? Explore our comprehensive resources at PETS.EDU.VN to ensure you’re fully prepared for the joys and responsibilities of pet ownership. Our detailed guides and expert advice will help you choose the right pet and provide the best possible care.

For more information, visit our website at PETS.EDU.VN or contact us at 789 Paw Lane, Petville, CA 91234, United States, or Whatsapp: +1 555-987-6543.

11. Understanding PetSmart’s Policies

Before acquiring a pet from PetSmart, it’s essential to understand their policies regarding pet sales and adoption.

Health Guarantee: PetSmart typically offers a health guarantee for pets purchased from their stores. Be sure to review the terms and conditions carefully.
Adoption Events: PetSmart partners with local animal shelters and rescue organizations to host adoption events in their stores.
Return Policy: Understand the return policy in case you are unable to care for the pet or if it develops health issues.
Responsible Pet Ownership: PetSmart promotes responsible pet ownership and provides resources to help customers make informed decisions.

12. Common Health Concerns for Pets

Understanding common health issues in pets is crucial for early detection and treatment.

12.1 Fish Diseases

Ich (White Spot Disease): Caused by a parasite, characterized by white spots on the body and fins. Treatment involves raising the water temperature and using medication.
Fin Rot: Bacterial infection causing frayed and deteriorating fins. Treat with antibiotics and improve water quality.
Swim Bladder Disease: Affects buoyancy, causing fish to swim abnormally. Can be caused by poor diet or infection. Treat with diet adjustments and antibiotics.

12.2 Small Animal Ailments

Hamster Wet Tail: Bacterial infection causing severe diarrhea. Requires immediate veterinary attention and antibiotics.
Guinea Pig Scurvy: Vitamin C deficiency causing weakness, bleeding, and joint pain. Prevent by providing a diet rich in Vitamin C.
Rat Respiratory Infections: Common in rats, causing sneezing, coughing, and labored breathing. Treat with antibiotics.

12.3 Bird Illnesses

Psittacosis (Parrot Fever): Bacterial infection transmissible to humans. Symptoms include respiratory distress and lethargy. Treat with antibiotics.
Feather Plucking: Can be caused by stress, boredom, or medical issues. Address the underlying cause and provide enrichment.
Egg Binding: Occurs when a female bird cannot lay an egg. Requires immediate veterinary attention.

12.4 Reptile Health Problems

Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD): Caused by calcium and Vitamin D3 deficiency. Results in bone deformities and weakness. Prevent with proper UVB lighting and calcium supplementation.
Respiratory Infections: Common in reptiles, causing sneezing, nasal discharge, and labored breathing. Treat with antibiotics and adjust environmental conditions.
Dysecdysis (Abnormal Shedding): Caused by improper humidity or nutritional deficiencies. Ensure proper humidity and provide a balanced diet.

13. Nutritional Needs of Different Pets

Providing a proper diet is vital for the health and longevity of pets.

13.1 Fish Nutrition

Flake Food: Convenient and readily available, but not always the most nutritious.
Pellets: More nutritionally complete than flakes, sinking and floating varieties available.
Frozen Foods: Offer variety and essential nutrients, such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia.
Live Foods: Provide enrichment and natural feeding behaviors, such as blackworms and feeder fish.

13.2 Small Pet Diets

Commercial Pellets: Formulated to meet the specific nutritional needs of each species.
Fresh Vegetables: Provide essential vitamins and minerals. Offer a variety of leafy greens, root vegetables, and fruits.
Hay (for Guinea Pigs and Chinchillas): Essential for digestive health and should be available at all times.
Seeds and Nuts: Offer in moderation as treats, as they are high in fat.

13.3 Bird Nutrition

Seed Mixes: A common food source, but often lacking in essential nutrients.
Pelleted Diets: More nutritionally complete than seed mixes.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Provide essential vitamins and minerals. Offer a variety of colors and textures.
Nuts and Seeds: Offer in moderation as treats.

13.4 Reptile and Amphibian Feeding

Insects: Crickets, mealworms, superworms, and roaches are common food sources for insectivorous reptiles and amphibians.
Frozen/Thawed Rodents: The primary food source for snakes.
Commercial Diets: Formulated for specific species, such as bearded dragons and crested geckos.
Vegetables: Offer a variety of leafy greens, root vegetables, and fruits to herbivorous and omnivorous reptiles.

14. Training and Socialization Tips

Training and socialization are crucial for the well-being of pets.

14.1 Dog Training at PetSmart

Basic Obedience Classes: Teach essential commands such as sit, stay, come, and down.
Advanced Training: Focus on more complex commands and behaviors.
Private Lessons: Provide personalized training tailored to the dog’s individual needs.

14.2 Small Animal Enrichment

Hamster Training: Teach hamsters to come when called and perform simple tricks.
Guinea Pig Socialization: Handle guinea pigs daily to acclimate them to human interaction.
Rat Training: Rats are highly intelligent and can be trained to perform complex tricks.

14.3 Bird Training and Interaction

Target Training: Teach birds to touch a target with their beak.
Step-Up Training: Teach birds to step onto your hand or a perch.
Verbal Interaction: Talk to your bird regularly to build a bond and encourage vocalization.

14.4 Reptile Handling and Acclimation

Gentle Handling: Handle reptiles gently and avoid sudden movements.
Acclimation Period: Allow reptiles to acclimate to their new environment before handling them.
Positive Reinforcement: Use treats and praise to reward positive behaviors.

15. Creating an Enriching Environment

An enriching environment is essential for the physical and psychological well-being of pets.

15.1 Fish Tank Enrichment

Live Plants: Provide hiding places and improve water quality.
Decorations: Offer visual stimulation and hiding places.
Varied Substrate: Choose a substrate that mimics the fish’s natural habitat.

15.2 Small Animal Habitat Enrichment

Chew Toys: Provide toys that encourage chewing and prevent dental problems.
Tunnels and Hides: Offer secure hiding places.
Running Wheels: Provide exercise opportunities for hamsters, gerbils, and mice.

15.3 Bird Cage Enrichment

Perches of Varying Sizes: Promote foot health.
Toys: Offer a variety of toys to prevent boredom.
Swings and Ladders: Encourage exercise and exploration.

15.4 Reptile and Amphibian Habitat Enrichment

Climbing Structures: Provide opportunities for climbing and exploration.
Hiding Places: Offer secure hiding places.
Water Features: Provide a source of water for drinking and soaking.

16. The Importance of Veterinary Care

Regular veterinary care is essential for maintaining the health of pets.

16.1 Finding a Veterinarian

Ask for Recommendations: Ask friends, family, or local pet owners for veterinarian recommendations.
Check Online Reviews: Read online reviews to get an idea of the veterinarian’s reputation.
Visit the Clinic: Visit the clinic to meet the veterinarian and staff and to assess the facility.

16.2 Regular Checkups

Annual Checkups: Schedule annual checkups for all pets.
Vaccinations: Keep vaccinations up-to-date.
Parasite Prevention: Protect pets from parasites such as fleas, ticks, and heartworms.

16.3 Recognizing Signs of Illness

Changes in Appetite: Loss of appetite or increased thirst.
Changes in Behavior: Lethargy, aggression, or hiding.
Physical Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, sneezing, or skin problems.

17. PetSmart’s Commitment to Animal Welfare

PetSmart is committed to promoting animal welfare and responsible pet ownership.

17.1 Adoption Partnerships

Partnering with Shelters: PetSmart partners with local animal shelters to host adoption events in their stores.
Promoting Adoption: Encouraging customers to adopt pets rather than purchasing them from breeders.

17.2 Education and Resources

Providing Information: PetSmart provides information and resources to help customers make informed decisions about pet ownership.
Promoting Responsible Ownership: Encouraging responsible pet ownership through education and advocacy.

17.3 Supporting Animal Welfare Organizations

Donating to Charities: PetSmart donates to animal welfare organizations to support their work.
Fundraising Events: Hosting fundraising events to raise money for animal welfare causes.

18. Common Myths About Pet Ownership

Many misconceptions surround pet ownership. Let’s debunk some common myths:

18.1 Fish Myths

Myth: Fish don’t need much care. Fact: Fish require regular water changes, proper filtration, and a balanced diet.
Myth: Goldfish can live in small bowls. Fact: Goldfish need large tanks with adequate filtration.

18.2 Small Animal Myths

Myth: Hamsters are low-maintenance pets. Fact: Hamsters require daily care and attention.
Myth: Guinea pigs don’t need companions. Fact: Guinea pigs are social animals and thrive in pairs or small groups.

18.3 Bird Myths

Myth: Birds don’t need toys. Fact: Birds need toys to prevent boredom and promote mental stimulation.
Myth: Birds can live in small cages. Fact: Birds need large cages with enough space to fly.

18.4 Reptile Myths

Myth: Reptiles don’t need much interaction. Fact: Reptiles benefit from gentle handling and interaction.
Myth: Reptiles are low-maintenance pets. Fact: Reptiles require specialized care and knowledge.

19. Preparing Your Home for a New Pet

Before bringing a new pet home, it’s essential to prepare your home to ensure their safety and comfort.

19.1 Pet-Proofing Your Home

Remove Hazards: Remove any potential hazards such as toxic plants, cleaning supplies, and electrical cords.
Secure Breakables: Secure any breakable items that could be knocked over.
Provide a Safe Space: Create a safe space where the pet can retreat and feel secure.

19.2 Setting Up the Habitat

Assemble the Habitat: Assemble the cage, tank, or terrarium according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Add Substrate and Decorations: Add the appropriate substrate and decorations to create a comfortable and enriching environment.
Install Heating and Lighting: Install the necessary heating and lighting equipment and ensure it is functioning properly.

19.3 Gathering Supplies

Food and Water Dishes: Purchase food and water dishes that are appropriate for the pet’s size and species.
Food: Purchase the appropriate food for the pet’s species and age.
Cleaning Supplies: Purchase cleaning supplies for maintaining the habitat.

20. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about what pets PetSmart sells and related topics:

What types of pets can I find at PetSmart? You can typically find fish, small pets (hamsters, guinea pigs, etc.), birds, and reptiles. Availability may vary by location.
Does PetSmart sell dogs or cats? PetSmart does not sell dogs or cats but partners with local shelters to facilitate adoptions.
Are the pets at PetSmart healthy? PetSmart provides a health guarantee and veterinary care for pets, but it’s always wise to have a vet check any new pet.
What should I consider before buying a pet from PetSmart? Consider your lifestyle, space, allergies, and commitment level to provide proper care.
What kind of supplies does PetSmart offer for pets? PetSmart offers a wide range of supplies, including food, habitats, toys, and health products.
Does PetSmart offer any services for pet owners? Yes, PetSmart offers grooming, training, veterinary care (in some locations), and boarding services.
How does PetSmart support responsible pet ownership? PetSmart provides educational resources, promotes adoption, and supports animal welfare organizations.
What are the ethical considerations of buying a pet from a large retailer like PetSmart? Support responsible breeders and adoption agencies, avoiding sources that prioritize profit over animal welfare.
What if I can no longer care for a pet I bought from PetSmart? Understand the return policy or consider rehoming the pet responsibly through a rescue organization.
Where can I find more information about pet care? PETS.EDU.VN is an excellent resource for comprehensive pet care information, offering guides, expert advice, and a community forum.

Are you ready to embark on the rewarding journey of pet ownership? Visit PETS.EDU.VN today for detailed information on selecting the right pet, providing optimal care, and creating a happy and healthy life together. We are here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact us at 789 Paw Lane, Petville, CA 91234, United States, or Whatsapp: +1 555-987-6543, or visit our website at pets.edu.vn for more information.