Post by Rachel on Jul 27, 2013 20:52:56 GMT
Being new to crabbing can be a daunting time for any keeper. Petshops sometimes give out advice along the lines of (a tiny plastic tank, gravel and some pellets are plenty) so suddenly finding out actually, these little guys are way more involved than that can come as a shock! If you already have a nice big tank, several inches of substrate and everything else needed then that is fantastic and well done for doing your research beforehand, if it was under a shop's advice kudos to them! You may consider reading the care guide through just to be sure nothing was missed, or you could start a thread if you have some questions. We are here to help.
If you do have a less suited setup it may be tempting to think "oh well this will do" or say "the shop said it so it is right" but unfortunately the shops can and do give out poor information and setups because they want to make money or simply do not know any better. Hermit crabs can live for decades, get very big in time and need the company of others of their species. Please, for the sake of these beautiful creatures, rehome them if you cannot or will not give them the care they need. A slow suffocation or lonely life is a fate no animal deserves. If you are worried about your children being upset, invest in a good setup and a species buddy or two if you only have the one. Your crabs will thank you for it and your family will benefit from having the example of good care to see. If you are still young and relying on your parents for help with supplies, please ask them to read at least the care guide and take a look at the food list.
If you have decided to at least consider continuing with these amazing little guys please make your way through the various stickies in each section. Some are a long read but this information is all important. If it was a shop that gave you advice that was not accurate, you might consider politely approaching them with a caresheet. Some won't listen but others will and it can make a big difference.
If you do have a less suited setup it may be tempting to think "oh well this will do" or say "the shop said it so it is right" but unfortunately the shops can and do give out poor information and setups because they want to make money or simply do not know any better. Hermit crabs can live for decades, get very big in time and need the company of others of their species. Please, for the sake of these beautiful creatures, rehome them if you cannot or will not give them the care they need. A slow suffocation or lonely life is a fate no animal deserves. If you are worried about your children being upset, invest in a good setup and a species buddy or two if you only have the one. Your crabs will thank you for it and your family will benefit from having the example of good care to see. If you are still young and relying on your parents for help with supplies, please ask them to read at least the care guide and take a look at the food list.
If you have decided to at least consider continuing with these amazing little guys please make your way through the various stickies in each section. Some are a long read but this information is all important. If it was a shop that gave you advice that was not accurate, you might consider politely approaching them with a caresheet. Some won't listen but others will and it can make a big difference.