>>Hi everyone,

>>

>>I've been part of a herp society in Canada for nearly a year now, and I have noticed that there seems to be this really deep-rooted hatred from pet stores when it comes to the herp society. They seem to feel that we are a real threat to their business, whereas I think we could be beneficial to them.

>>

>>Just wondering... is this something very typical of herp societies? Because if it isn't, my guess is it would mean there's some other underlying cause for the herp society's alienation.

>>

>>Thanks for your input!

>>

>>Julie



Julie, I don't think that all herp societies are like this. We have a fairly good relationship with many of the local pet shops in our area. We even have a couple of pet shop owners and employees as members. Of course there will always be some shops that are not as supportive as others, but you can't please everyone.



Probably what caused your rift was merely a personality conflict between some members and some pet shop owners/employees. Often times pet shops do not always provide the best information or care for their animals. Instead of politely pointing out their errors and offering to help the pet shop may of felt like it was being "attacked" and thus began some of the problems.



Maybe you could offer the shops care sheets or other advice that could be mutually beneficial. Try it one shop at a time and see how you do.




-----
A.J. Sokolik

asokolik@wnyherp.org

Western New York Herpetological Society

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