Hello all,
I would like to preface my post by formally apologizing for taking part
in what has now become the great "PETCO" debate.  Although I still feel
the way I do about PETCO, it is not up to me to slander, criticize or
harass anyone whom does not share my viewpoints.
 
Although I am a fairly new poster, the responses I got when I posted
about my sick ferret were overwhelmingly positive and supportive.  I
have belonged to other boards where there existed a sort of mob
mentality.  I was slandered on more than one occasion due to my choice
of food, bedding, or toys for my babies.  If I needed information, I
was too intimidated to post half the time; I was too afraid my lack of
knowledge would be misconstrued as ignorance and I would receive a verbal
lashing.  Coming on to this board was like a breath of fresh air.  The
majority of people here are kind and reassuring, and more than happy to
share their experiences and knowledge with whomever asks for it.  So I
would like to apologize for partaking in a discussion which turned ugly,
and rather than stating facts and opinions, began attacking people on a
personal level.  The nastiness pertaining to this debate shouldn't have
ever occurred, and I shouldn't have ever taken part in it.
 
I would like to personally apologize to anyone I've offended, and would
like to beg those still taking part in the 2nd grade antics to stop.
While there is nothing wrong with a healthy debate, and everyone is
entitled to their own opinion, the issue should never be taken to the
next level.  There should never be name-calling, and people with opposing
views should not be slandered for holding those views.  I understand the
passion and frustration stemming from this argument, but I believe
everyone on the board wants what's best for the ferrets.  I don't believe
anybody would come on here to post about ferrets, share their funny
ferret stories and videos, and volunteer their knowledge to whomever
needs it, if they didn't care about the welfare of ferrets, or any
animals for that matter.  Just because everyone doesn't agree on the
conditions of animals in pet stores, or a particular pet store, doesn't
make anyone better or worse, smarter or less intelligent.  It just makes
everyone different.  And that's what's so great about our country.  We
are all allowed to be whomever we are without having to fear being
persecuted for our beliefs.
 
Once again, my sincerest apologies to anyone I've offended, annoyed or
put off by anything negative I've posted here.
 
Sincerely,
Meghan
[Posted in FML issue 4834]