Why buy something over the net that you aren't guarenteed to get alive. In my experience you can find good healthy livestock at Wai's, they are also the best for corals in Calgary. I have also had great success with all fish that I've purchased from Petcetera belive it or not. Stay far far away from Big Al's as my success rate with their fish is 0%.

Hi there guys. I've been reading these boards for a long time but never really took the time to sign up. My mentality centralized on the fact that I am an LFS employee (Gold Aquariums) and therefore my opinions will always be regarded as biased. I'm speaking from past experiences.

Regardless, I really have to comment on all this. The LFS will always be a starting point for anyone to get into the hobby. That's a fact.

I think the biggest issue here is that no one says anything. No one tells the LFS what their concerns are (dead fish yeah, but really, when's the last time most of you have stepped up to bat and told anyone "hey, you shouldn't import those things anymore" or "look buddy, you're ripping me off and I know it".

Voice your concerns. Let them know that you know. If enough opinions become valid to the LFS business, that would make any responsible LFS owner at the very least consider the changes.

I'm not sure if I've dug myself a hole somewhere here, but honestly, I think that if change is to be made, the consumer has to let the dealer know directly rather then hole up on some message boards and debate on the merits who's good and who's horrible.

Anyway, what do you guys do at your meets and when are they?

So you're saying that these store keepers, who've been in the hobby for years, can't identify for themselves what constitutes poor practice? :neutral: I agree we hobbyists could say something, but that doesn't make it our responsibility, and I don't think our advice/recommendations/opinions would be welcome in most cases.

We have meetings now and again, and generally just eat, talk and look at the host's tanks. You would be most welcome I am sure.

Some are in it for the money. Some are unresponsible. Whatever the reason, my point is that if you know you're getting a bunch of balogna, don't just take it up silently. Some people will continue with whatever they can get away with for as long as they can.

Whichever way it is, I'm not defending Gold Aquariums. I don't see any need to.

None of what I say is meant in a confrontational manner either. Just my $.02.

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Cool! I'll keep my eyes peeled for them. Thanks!

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I remember a pretty heated argument with an employee at Big Al's that I was in, they ended up tag teaming me before I could prove my point. They weren't will ing to listen to my concerns as I was just a lowly customer and they are all "experts". Try telling some one like Bigs Al's that they are doing something wrong and see were it gets you.

Maybe my aproach was wrong in this certian instance, but every time I go in there just to look, I am amazed at how their employees treat customers. Some will say anything to make a sale just like used car salesman, Thanks for letting me vent again, I love bashing Big Al's!

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Incidently Albert, I have been going to Gold's for a long time for cichlids and now for marine. I have had nothing but good livestock and the service seems honest, thanks! Anything cool at Gold's that I should come and check out?

One day, I'll do it. I'll go somewhere and ask if that sea apple is safe for my tang and angel tank. See how that goes.

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We get new marines in every Friday. Corals every two weeks or so.

I have a sense I may regret getting involved in this "dispute", but far be it from me to sit quietly and listen to things I find arguable.
Everybody is entitled to an opinion and frankly, that's what this board is all about. It does bother me when an individual can praise one store and bash another. Especially when my experiences are completely opposite. How can a store be praised when it boasts such arrogant service and houses such disease ridden livestock... :confused: . My solution is simple. I do voice my concerns and disgust when justifiable but when the response quoted is "they're only fish..." I've done my part. My business is done elsewhere. End of story... If the experiences are reversed for others, I suggest you do the same ! Go elsewhere. And continue to go elsewhere. So many people will critisize a store yet they continue to support them. That makes you as guilty as them.
Indeed some places are simply in it for the sale. That is present in every industry and it is unfortunate. So tell them. If they "tag team" you with the additude they know more than you...perhaps you entered into a battle which should not have been began. :confused: .
I try and carry a degree of respect for all individuals who work in this chosen industry. I like to think their experiences are something from which I can gain from. As a consumer, we have a responsibility of making informed decisions. Making that decision based on one individuals recomendations can be a very dangerous practice.
As a hobbiest for many years, I've always found some individuals who are quick to boast about their wisdom in the hobby. Some are legitimate, others simply don't understand the concept of two ears and only one mouth...as I've expanded my hobby into a form of business I meet even more people with the "know it all attitude". I politely listen and let them express themselves. If I disagree or feel they're "mis-informed", I tell them. I can quickly distinguish between those who are willing to share experiences and learn from on another, and those who just need to talk. I can't change that and I don't try to...
Perhaps our "approach" or "delivery" with the industry employees should be re-considered as these individuals see it all, every day. I consider myself very experienced in this hobby but I never fail to listen to those I meet that are passionate about this hobby too. I've been keeping fish for nearly thirty years but much of what I learn is from people who have been doing it for perhaps only two years. As Steve so appropriately stated once, "there's more than one way to skin a cat".

Before I totally get off topic let me say this. Talk to your retailers. They might just care enough to listen. If they don't, ask yourself, was it my approach or do they want my money and future refernces to go elsewhere...?

After reviewing this post, I'd like to add that "Gold's" is not one of the stores which I was referring to. Though limited, every experience with Dennis has been a positive one...

Since this thread is once again resurfacing as a popular discussion topic, I thought I would throw in my comments.

Like most of us, I have spent thousands of dollars in this hobby and contiue to spend a considerable amount every month. I frequent all the LFS in Calgary on a regular basis to see what is new and always have my visa ready for that "impulse" purchase.

I have been in Wai's several times and often ask when the next acro shipment is coming in. I find his customer service to be absolutely terrible. Most times I am the only one in the store and he doesn't even look up from his front desk to say hello or ask if I need help.

I have finally vowed never to return and will take my business to the other LFS in Calgary or buy online from J&L or Ocean Aquatics.

I am not looking for a "deal", I will pay a premium for good service and honest advise.

My only regret is that I didn't tell Danny I wouldn't be back.

I hope he reads these posts on Canreef, but somehow I don't think he does or cares.

Jim :mad: