IMHO, the original poster (Jayne) was looking to the people on this list for advice because she wasn't sure what to do. All she got was scolded for a long post and a lecture. I thought this list was about helping each other out. Sometimes I wonder. "Good" pet stores usually take obviously sick animals in the back to treat them, not just put them in another cage in view of the buying public. The reputation of the store is at stake. They don't want people running around saying that the animals in that store look half sick. It's bad business practice. It's like running a landscape business from a building overgrown with weeds! Jayne...Your post shows your concern. I think you should go back to the store and ask them about it. It never hurts to ask...all you will get is an answer!:) If the little guy is in view of the public, they should be willing to answer questions about him. Show your concern, not just in this but in everything. Compassion is a virtue! And believe me, the world needs more compassionate people. margo [Posted in FML issue 1522]