Not lately, it seems pretty steady in the big picture. I do think they have been available in more locations recently. What I dread is the March-April spat of Christmas chameleons that develop issues
I understand needing some experience to get the finer points of husbandry where it needs to be, but I do get frustrated to see people being told to buy a bunch of stuff the pet stores toss at them like red night lights, heat rocks, waterfalls, bark, etc, and don't walk away with things they actually need like drippers, supplements, thermometers, and UV lights. Or even worse, when new keepers aren't told that chameleons require live insects.
What boggles my mind is that if pet stores set up their Cham vivs like showcase pieces, they could provide the best possible environment AND sell more expensive cage decoration items - it's all about presentation.
I also think pet stores should be required to put dollar signs next to animals based on the cost of care (just like restaurants do based on cost). Chameleons $$$, parrots $$$$, etc, and something graphic showing the expected life span of the animal. No one who buys a cute tortoise at a pet store really understands that baby turtle is going to outlive them.
I'm not criticizing the OP - they are in the right place now and hopefully their Cham can get the needed care. I am criticizing some pet stores where the churn and burn practice of selling animals comes at the expense of their health (and at the wallet of the person who buys them).
OP: Best of luck to your little girl. Don't be shy about asking questions and learning more here. You've hit a nerve about big box pet stores, but we want the best for you and your Cham and will help wherever we can.
I wish you good luck and hope you can rehabilitate her so she can live a long and happy life!
