Well-socialized chinchillas often make wonderful pets, particularly if they are hand tamed by the breeder. As with any animal, it is better to purchase your chinchilla from a breeder, rather than from a pet store. Some chinchilla clubs provide literature to pet shops free of charge, so that their shoppers can know how to care for their new pets.
Finding local pet supply stores is not hard. What is hard is finding an affordable location that provides the highest quality products. Although you may think that you can not get both quality and low prices, you may just be mistaken. Before visiting your local pet store, make sure to stop online and find the most affordable local store for your needs.