Should we create a list of breeders?

[WorldofHamsters]

I was wondering if you guys think it would be good or no? It wouldn't be a list of ethical breeders, since that's subjective, but just a list of hamsteries and info like social media, location, species etc. Though of course we would advise people to do research into the breeder before getting from them

[brownies_buddy]

Personally, I say no...

That is really something that each owner should look into.

I do think a list of questions to ask a breeder, would be great! For both sides, this is info that one should record on their hamsters and something that a breeder should be able (willing, is subjective) to answer when asked.

[Kikya]

I was wondering if you guys think it would be good or no? It wouldn't be a list of ethical breeders, since that's subjective, but just a list of hamsteries and info like social media, location, species etc. Though of course we would advise people to do research into the breeder before getting from them

Hmmm, I'm not sure I want to get into promoting specific breeders, just because it tends to get people riled up. I think it's a good idea in theory but I think people should make up their own minds about what makes for an ethical breeder.

For example, if we put a breeder on a list and then someone comes on here and starts saying all kinds of bad things about a specific breeder, then I'm now in the position of deciding do I keep them on the list of not. I just don't really want that kind of responsibility or want to bring that kind of drama here.

Also, it's a list that would need a lot of updating as I see quite a few hamsteries come and go.

[Spud]

I was wondering if you guys think it would be good or no? It wouldn't be a list of ethical breeders, since that's subjective, but just a list of hamsteries and info like social media, location, species etc. Though of course we would advise people to do research into the breeder before getting from them

I'd say absolutely not (sorry if this comes across as harsh).
I believe that it is best to promote reputable rescues, warn people about the horrors of pet shops and unethical breeders, then (like brownies_buddy said) give people pointers about how to choose an 'ethical' breeder if they want to go down that route.
First and foremost, my priority is finding suitable homes for unwanted hamsters who are currently living in less-than-ideal conditions.

Good question though. Maybe it would be worth putting together a list of questions to ask breeders and things to consider when buying a breeder-bought hamster. Perhaps a list of red flags (e.g. not letting you see the enclosures of the hamsters/ pictures of the enclosures) would be beneficial too?
As much as I dislike the fact that people breed animals, it's undeniable that this won't stop for a long time, so it's best to help guide people about how to make sensible decisions with the hamster's best interests at heart if they are set on getting a hamster from a breeder.

[hamsterlover246]

I was wondering if you guys think it would be good or no? It wouldn't be a list of ethical breeders, since that's subjective, but just a list of hamsteries and info like social media, location, species etc. Though of course we would advise people to do research into the breeder before getting from them

I'd say absolutely not (sorry if this comes across as harsh).
I believe that it is best to promote reputable rescues, warn people about the horrors of pet shops and unethical breeders, then (like brownies_buddy said) give people pointers about how to choose an 'ethical' breeder if they want to go down that route.
First and foremost, my priority is finding suitable homes for unwanted hamsters who are currently living in less-than-ideal conditions.

Good question though. Maybe it would be worth putting together a list of questions to ask breeders and things to consider when buying a breeder-bought hamster. Perhaps a list of red flags (e.g. not letting you see the enclosures of the hamsters/ pictures of the enclosures) would be beneficial too?
As much as I dislike the fact that people breed animals, it's undeniable that this won't stop for a long time, so it's best to help guide people about how to make sensible decisions with the hamster's best interests at heart if they are set on getting a hamster from a breeder.

I agree.
I think the red Flags list is a great idea.
I do support ethical breeders , but I think it can cause a bit of drama and problems, as maybe some people support, some don't. even one person thinking its an ethical breeder and the other don't, will lead to "teams". I just think that's unescessary:)
But great question though ! I believe breeders should be talked more about, not to promote but to show which ones are more ethical than others. Buying a hamster from an ethical breeder is far far better than from a backyard breeder anyways. (My hamster is from an ethical breeder )
But I completely understand where you are coming from, and I don't think it's a bad idea, just maybe not the most necessary in here could cause more problems than not.

[Kikya]

I think it would be better to discuss your personal experiences with various breeders instead of speculating based on someone else's experience. I'm fully on board with reviewing breeders and respectfully discussing how things went and what they communicated with you. I would love to hear about different breeders and their care, advice, etc. Anyone can feel free to post about their experiences!

Rather than get a list of breeders we don't know anything about.