You make a good point about it becoming a petting zoo. One of the MRS's rules is to keep all animals contained and in there enclosures at all times except when someone is looking to buy something. I see dozens of people walk into the show with 6-8 foot snakes draped around their neck, or carrying around 3-4 foot iguanas and monitors, all in a room so crowded it is hard to look at the tables through all the people. I see this as both dangerous for the people and especially the animals. No matter how tame a snake is, all the noise, movement, smells, can make them nervous and strike in defense. The last time I set up there, there was a bunch of teenagers standing in front of my table, and one of them had a 6-7 foot boa draped over his shoulder. Now it was annoying enough that no one could look at what we had to sell because they were loitering directly in front of our table, but then I turned around to see the snake crawling into a tank of hamsters we had to sell!!! I said "EXCUSE ME!" and they said "oh, sorry" and moved on. The only problem with this is simple; the rules NEED to be enforced. As far as it dying: It really has it's ups and downs. Each month is different, less/more vendors, less/more people, less/more compitition between vendors on products. We've done really good at some shows, and barely paid for our tables at others. I have come to three conclusions about the show: 1) About 75% of the people who come to the show, seem to come only to look at the reptiles (which isn't bad). 2)Most people who do buy things are either looking for feeders, or want a pet, such as a small frog, snake, or lizard. 3)Most people aren't out to buy anything major, such as a het for something, so most don't look to pay much for anything, and will try to talk you down. Now this is my experience and my opinions, I'm open to everyone else's. We usually sell a variety of things, but I know some people who sell just feeder rats, and bring around 500 to the show, have sold out before the show is over. The same with vendors who sell inexpensive reptiles such as Tokay geckos, and baby CH balls. Any other thoughts? What are some of the best shows in the Mid-Eastern United States?
