Another pet store incident (long, sorry)

[Buy A Paper Doll]

I went to the bird store today to get seed mix and treats for M&M. While I was there, I asked if they had nest boxes for lovebirds. Now, we all know that Melody is waaaaaay too young and too immature to be taking care of eggs, but it's happened to others before with a hen her age. While I am doing everything in my power to discourage her, if she does happen to present me with an egg, well, then I am going to need to give her a nest box. With my luck, IF Melody lays an egg, it will be at a time when there is no way I can get to the store 45 minutes away. So I'd rather be prepared.

So I tell the lady that my birds are mating and I would like to get a nest box just in case she decides to start laying eggs. She goes off on me. "You know that if she doesn't feed the babies then you have to do it yourself." Yes. Yes, I know that. And I appreciate that they are making sure people are aware of the work and responsibility involved with breeding, especially when momma bird decides not to feed her babies. And I repeat myself: I'm not encouraging her, but I want to have one on hand just in case I ever find myself needing one.

Now I have 2 ladies and the owner of the store telling me that I don't really *need* a nest box, I shouldn't give her a nest box if I don't want her to lay eggs. One of them suggests I let her build a nest in her food bowl rather than give her a box.

At this point, I'm repeating myself for the 3rd time: I am NOT going to put the nest box in the cage unless I actually see an egg. I am not in any way trying to encourage eggs; in fact I rearrange their cage and avoid giving anything resembling nesting material. I darned near risk life and limb every morning when I pull their cozy out of their cage, specifically to prevent her from getting any ideas about laying eggs in there. The only reason I am wanting to buy the nest box now is because I live 45 minutes away and with my luck I will be presented with an egg at a time when the store is closed.

They still argued with me.

Jiminy Christmas. I bought my seed, only because there is no one else in the area that sells it, and left without the stupid box. It's just not worth it. I'm going to ask my brother in law to build me a nest box. And while I'm at it I'll look for an online source for seed.

And you should have seen the look on the girl's face when I suggested that one could boil or addle eggs, or replace them with ceramic ones, to prevent babies. Some people have very strong opinions about NOT doing this. It's definitely not the best decision for everyone. I learned the hard way, if I'm ever in a situation where I find that I have to do this, I am just not going to tell anyone. Except for people on this board, who seem to be more understanding.

Anyway, sorry to be so long winded. Just had to vent.

[Mummieeva]

I am so sorry those people said that to you. It was nice they told you the few good facts. But bad they treated you like you were dumb. Like a hen laying eggs in food dish is good :rolleyes: .I hope you Miss Melody puts eggies off til mommy is ready(and you have a box).


Steph

[TGerard]

Hi Jennifer,

Sorry to hear about your misadventures at the pet shop today. It sounds like a case where they were so caught up in their own message that they forgot to listen to your intentions. I'm thinking that they have had their share of misguided/uninformed customers and were responding from their jaded history. I know you were not guilty of any wrong doing here. They may have had the best of intentions but, that still doesn't excuse the rude & arrogant behavior. >:

[Elle]

I think they are the ones who needs a few lessons about breeding. Too bad they weren't listening to what you were actually saying.

[Booda's Butt]

being that i work at a petsmart, i can say that there are a lot more people who don't know than those who do. like many have said before me, they probably were just so caught up in giving you the same routine they give to every other customer that comes in and says "hmm, i think i'd like to give breeding a try - just hand me a male and female, and i'll be set" that they didn't realize you had a very valid explanation. but again, it's not ever a good reason to be rude to a customer. hope you don't have to go through another frustrating experience like this again!

[LoveBugs]

Sorry about your incident...

Perhaps try www.globalpets.com

Their prices arn't bad, and ifyou put in the coupon code PET you get 15% off.

[Booda's Butt]

LoveBugs - is that coupon code always valid? or does it change from time to time? I was browsing their site, and the prices are pretty good. Do they overcharge on shipping or anything?

[LoveBugs]

I just ordered from them for the first time about a week ago. I tried yesterday with the coupon too, and it was still good!

I went a little crazy on toys for Guomy, and spent a little over 100$ because of course I had to get some for the lovies, and shipping and handling was a little steep at 13$ or so dollars...However, even with that, I thought their prices were pretty good, that and they have a BIG selection of birdie knick knacks that the birdies need. :)

Delivery was quick too via fedex...I think I place the order at 1:30am on Thursday morning, and by Sat. afternoon, the package was already here!

Their customer service is pretty good too.

I'm going to have to place in another order w/ them since Angel, the B&G is here, that and I'm waiting for them to get some stainless steel bowls back in stock since the lovies like to throw their dishes everyday, and one with http://www.birdsnestonline.com for toy parts. (Macaw toys are EXPENSIVE!!!)

[Angelwing]

Yeah, some individuals are just twits. I understand that they are thinking of the welfare of your birds, and most likely get many customers in who have no idea what they're doing at all, or who don't bother researching anything. But that's no excuse to be rude.