In Reply to: New Glider Owner posted by TeresaS on February 09, 19100 at 10:36:14:

:I learned that you can't make them feel guilty or stupid for their questions, even if they do make you want to get on your soapbox.
: I mean, I have years of experience with many types of animals, but I have been a little afraid to post on this board. Imagine how it must feel to very inexperienced owners or potential owners.

I completely agree. I also think pet care does involve alot of common sense, but I learned long ago not everyone has common sense.
I subscribe to the theory that you can catch more flys with honey than vinegar. In other words, telling someone off isn't going to make them change their ways, it just makes them mad and not listen to a word.

But by giving calm advice without blantantly telling someone they are wrong, and telling of bad experiences others have experienced, has a good effect.

I deal with questions from new glider owners all the time, and even if I'm gasping in shock at what they are doing, I always answer calmly and always advise rather than tell. They always thank me for the advice, and I hope they really mean it when they say they will try it.

I love this board. I don't care if people argue all day, I'm going to read it anyways. But if I feel I'm personally going to be blasted, I'll definitely stop posting...I think anyone would.

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