My Thoughts after a year of YT

[yorkie2luv]

Ok, let me preference this by saying. I've taken a few breaks from here over the past year or so. I wanted to express some things to everyone that I have noticed when reading through the boards and if I get banned from YT so be it.

I initially came to YT like so many others from searching the web and reading so much information after deciding the Yorkshire Terrier breed is the breed for me. I know there are some folks that just want a yorkie because it's the fad thing to do and they come here but that doesn't mean they would be less of a puppy parent. Sometimes it is those same naive parents who transition into what I call the Ultimate YT-er. Now this "Ultimate" title doesn't just fit here as I'm a member of a community service sorority and many other professional organizations and it is the same everywhere.

There are a few Ultimate YT-ers (I don't know names as I don't gossip, stalk or follow folks like that) but I do see them often, that are on here that make it their duty to constantly and consistently down talk, impose ideals on posts people make that have NOTHING to do with what was asked.

I know policing these things is hard to do for the admins. I understand this as I work in online policy and web development but really there should be new threads and old threads that have posts unrelated that need to just be removed as they show "New" folks the pettiness and harshness that exists on this board. I know some folks don't mean to be that way. But if a computer could generate the "Stuck up nose" image, it would be seen in how people express themselves on here.

There are some really kind and good folks that are scarred off of this board. This is truly shameful as this board from my understanding is meant to do the following:
1. Educate
2. Promote healthy relationships among yorkie owners and/or those desiring to be owners
3. Find homes for yorkies
4. Support each other

I'm not saying these things don't occur, I'm just saying that too many people put external things in the way of this. Sad part is there are rules and guidelines that have been listed and established to do assist in policing these things. I think some have been to far involved in the dramatics they forgot these rules and need to re-read them again or be reminded of them.

I have a few suggestions as many do but again the moderators are doing their best so I'm putting this out to the members old and new. If I say something that offends someone, my bad but then again the truth is the truth and I can only reference what I have read recently as these things are fresh in my mind.

Here are some things I've noticed:

1. If someone posts a yorkie for adoption/sale that doesn't have papers, or something you don't agree with - Why are you posting your opinions on the color, how old they are etc.? - The point of the post is to find a home, who cares about your opinion. Isn't it true that we want animals to be happy, healthy and well taken care of? So let someone do that. I think direct questions should be asked in PM. I've noticed there are many threads that don't get a response because people are scared off by the nastiness, etc. Ideally we want these animals to have loving homes. Stop hindering folks from doing that because you have a personal preference or issue you need to discuss on a listing.

2. When someone says they have a yorkie that is under 12 weeks old and ask a question not referencing age - just using it as a detail, why do people feel the need to speak about how reputable their breeder isn't for letting them go so early. WHO CARES! At this point IT'S TOO LATE FOR THAT NOW. Now, it is those who are more experienced opportunity to help this person with their issue. NEWS FLASH: There are people around the world who still let yorkies go at 8 weeks and have for years. Standards change throughout the years - y'all know that so if someone has been doing it for 25yrs and didn't change to the new standard then that is ok. Take human's for example it use to be ok to have baby at 14 - 18 yrs of age and be married young. Now, it isn't to some. Doesn't make people any less of a human being.
Yes, it is understood breeding standards are this and that but really people they already have the puppy let it go!

3. When asked about traveling with a puppy or something and people ask for insight, they don't ask you to be rude and go: "I would never do so and so..." The person didn't ask you what you would do, they asked have you or can you tell them how, etc.

4. When people ask about registries, etc.? Please stop telling people what is the best, etc. People just want to know what all the fuss is about when it comes to if their dog is registered. I think many of you forgot that the foundation of all is KENNEL. I know ... I know the purity of the breed, etc. Well if it is all about that then in all honesty people Universal Kennel Club (est. 1938) should be the one everyone is fighting about. Just note all kennel clubs have those members that are unacceptable such as puppy mills etc., so stating that a younger organization isn't as good, etc. is ridiculous. Again, standards change and it takes that 1 person to make a move for a change and then everyone follows. In music there SESC, BMI and ASCAP. People have their preferences for different reasons but it doesn't mean one is "less acceptable" than the other. Remember that!

5. Last the USDA list. I have a problem with people having an issue with breeders that are such. Again there will always be bad ones in the bunch but if we purchase and won't eat food unless it's USDA certified then why is there the same issue with those who actually were evaluated and are USDA. Yeah, yeah, yeah, there are some places that slip through the cracks. Yet, that is anywhere and with anything. This doesn't make people horrible breeders. Just research them and judge them, not the stigma.

6. Someone asks about a breeder and sends a website and people go oh the site says and does this...etc. Again, I work in web, etc. so look not everyone has the best tools to make the greatest website and honestly many of the sites I've seen don't meet web standards! That's not the point I'm making, just because the site has minimal info on it or they use buzz words such as "teacup" doesn't mean they are a bad breeder. Remember this is an outlet to find their puppies homes and they are competing among many. The word "teacup" in goolge is a high ranking word and those people looking for a puppy don't know it's bad it's just how they have seen it described thus people describing it the same way. To really understand the person selling the puppy one must call and speak to them. Understand their heart. Some of the older folks don't know the correct terms, have AKC, UKC, registered dogs and love them no less. The just raise them the way they were taught to raise them. You will know and if unsure have a friend call asking questions and compare notes.

7. Puppy Mill dogs...I know not a good thing for them to be from a puppy mill but what is the point of rescuing them if you aren't going to help or adopt them. You rescue them to kill? I have a problem with this and then those that fuss at members who obtained a dog from a backyard breeder (they may not have known that is what they were until here) or got a dog from a pet store. If no one takes or gets these dogs, then what? We just keep killing animals to have population control? I know some folks end up with a sickly dogs and bills but honestly people, if you were pregnant and had a baby that was sick, would you just give up? People who come here as stated before already have the dog now, let's help them take care and keep them.


Ok, I'm done with my rant for 2010. I wanted to get that off my chest and share with those who think it, but didn't want to say it.

Let me leave you all with this. Animals are gifts that we should treasure and always think if I don't do it, who will.

Blessings!!!!

[sandyapk]

Now that is a long post!

[jp4m2]

.....and that my friends, is the rest of the story....Good day!.......

[Wylie's Mom]

Well, first and most importantly - hello and blessings in return !

I can see you've put your heart as well as a lot of thought into your post...so I've been sitting here a while trying to think of what I want to say...

...and I'm a little bit stumped .

I appreciate the time you took, and the heart and soul you put into your post.

What stumped me and why I'm struggling to find a way to respond and try to discuss this effectively (or, what I think might be effective, I should clarify) is this: the content of your post seems to be admonishing a whole lot of YT folks for being so judgmental...YET...what I'm hearing in your own tone is...pretty much just judgment...and so...

....I find myself between a rock and a hard place.

[yorkie2luv]

sandyapk - LOL. I tried not to make it so long but I was all in the moment. Sounded like mice running on my keyboard.

jp4m2 - yes ma'm

[brendah]

Originally Posted by yorkie2luv

Ok, let me preference this by saying. I've taken a few breaks from here over the past year or so. I wanted to express some things to everyone that I have noticed when reading through the boards and if I get banned from YT so be it.

I initially came to YT like so many others from searching the web and reading so much information after deciding the Yorkshire Terrier breed is the breed for me. I know there are some folks that just want a yorkie because it's the fad thing to do and they come here but that doesn't mean they would be less of a puppy parent. Sometimes it is those same naive parents who transition into what I call the Ultimate YT-er. Now this "Ultimate" title doesn't just fit here as I'm a member of a community service sorority and many other professional organizations and it is the same everywhere.

There are a few Ultimate YT-ers (I don't know names as I don't gossip, stalk or follow folks like that) but I do see them often, that are on here that make it their duty to constantly and consistently down talk, impose ideals on posts people make that have NOTHING to do with what was asked.

I know policing these things is hard to do for the admins. I understand this as I work in online policy and web development but really there should be new threads and old threads that have posts unrelated that need to just be removed as they show "New" folks the pettiness and harshness that exists on this board. I know some folks don't mean to be that way. But if a computer could generate the "Stuck up nose" image, it would be seen in how people express themselves on here.

There are some really kind and good folks that are scarred off of this board. This is truly shameful as this board from my understanding is meant to do the following:
1. Educate
2. Promote healthy relationships among yorkie owners and/or those desiring to be owners
3. Find homes for yorkies
4. Support each other

I'm not saying these things don't occur, I'm just saying that too many people put external things in the way of this. Sad part is there are rules and guidelines that have been listed and established to do assist in policing these things. I think some have been to far involved in the dramatics they forgot these rules and need to re-read them again or be reminded of them.

I have a few suggestions as many do but again the moderators are doing their best so I'm putting this out to the members old and new. If I say something that offends someone, my bad but then again the truth is the truth and I can only reference what I have read recently as these things are fresh in my mind.

Here are some things I've noticed:

1. If someone posts a yorkie for adoption/sale that doesn't have papers, or something you don't agree with - Why are you posting your opinions on the color, how old they are etc.? - The point of the post is to find a home, who cares about your opinion. Isn't it true that we want animals to be happy, healthy and well taken care of? So let someone do that. I think direct questions should be asked in PM. I've noticed there are many threads that don't get a response because people are scared off by the nastiness, etc. Ideally we want these animals to have loving homes. Stop hindering folks from doing that because you have a personal preference or issue you need to discuss on a listing.

2. When someone says they have a yorkie that is under 12 weeks old and ask a question not referencing age - just using it as a detail, why do people feel the need to speak about how reputable their breeder isn't for letting them go so early. WHO CARES! At this point IT'S TOO LATE FOR THAT NOW. Now, it is those who are more experienced opportunity to help this person with their issue. NEWS FLASH: There are people around the world who still let yorkies go at 8 weeks and have for years. Standards change throughout the years - y'all know that so if someone has been doing it for 25yrs and didn't change to the new standard then that is ok. Take human's for example it use to be ok to have baby at 14 - 18 yrs of age and be married young. Now, it isn't to some. Doesn't make people any less of a human being.
Yes, it is understood breeding standards are this and that but really people they already have the puppy let it go!

3. When asked about traveling with a puppy or something and people ask for insight, they don't ask you to be rude and go: "I would never do so and so..." The person didn't ask you what you would do, they asked have you or can you tell them how, etc.

4. When people ask about registries, etc.? Please stop telling people what is the best, etc. People just want to know what all the fuss is about when it comes to if their dog is registered. I think many of you forgot that the foundation of all is KENNEL. I know ... I know the purity of the breed, etc. Well if it is all about that then in all honesty people Universal Kennel Club (est. 1938) should be the one everyone is fighting about. Just note all kennel clubs have those members that are unacceptable such as puppy mills etc., so stating that a younger organization isn't as good, etc. is ridiculous. Again, standards change and it takes that 1 person to make a move for a change and then everyone follows. In music there SESC, BMI and ASCAP. People have their preferences for different reasons but it doesn't mean one is "less acceptable" than the other. Remember that!

5. Last the USDA list. I have a problem with people having an issue with breeders that are such. Again there will always be bad ones in the bunch but if we purchase and won't eat food unless it's USDA certified then why is there the same issue with those who actually were evaluated and are USDA. Yeah, yeah, yeah, there are some places that slip through the cracks. Yet, that is anywhere and with anything. This doesn't make people horrible breeders. Just research them and judge them, not the stigma.

6. Someone asks about a breeder and sends a website and people go oh the site says and does this...etc. Again, I work in web, etc. so look not everyone has the best tools to make the greatest website and honestly many of the sites I've seen don't meet web standards! That's not the point I'm making, just because the site has minimal info on it or they use buzz words such as "teacup" doesn't mean they are a bad breeder. Remember this is an outlet to find their puppies homes and they are competing among many. The word "teacup" in goolge is a high ranking word and those people looking for a puppy don't know it's bad it's just how they have seen it described thus people describing it the same way. To really understand the person selling the puppy one must call and speak to them. Understand their heart. Some of the older folks don't know the correct terms, have AKC, UKC, registered dogs and love them no less. The just raise them the way they were taught to raise them. You will know and if unsure have a friend call asking questions and compare notes.

7. Puppy Mill dogs...I know not a good thing for them to be from a puppy mill but what is the point of rescuing them if you aren't going to help or adopt them. You rescue them to kill? I have a problem with this and then those that fuss at members who obtained a dog from a backyard breeder (they may not have known that is what they were until here) or got a dog from a pet store. If no one takes or gets these dogs, then what? We just keep killing animals to have population control? I know some folks end up with a sickly dogs and bills but honestly people, if you were pregnant and had a baby that was sick, would you just give up? People who come here as stated before already have the dog now, let's help them take care and keep them.


Ok, I'm done with my rant for 2010. I wanted to get that off my chest and share with those who think it, but didn't want to say it.

Let me leave you all with this. Animals are gifts that we should treasure and always think if I don't do it, who will.

Blessings!!!!

I have to agree.

[Mom to Hot Rod]

Happy New year to you as well.

I agree with a lot of what you have said. I also want to say that if you go onto an open forum, you will need to develop somewhat of a "thick skin". I don't mean that you need to take "bashing" from anyone, but once it is put out there on the web, the person will get opinions and "what if's". There is no way to keep people from voicing their opinions, experiences and knowledge--good or bad.

I agree that people need to back off on some on some the threads, but unfortunately, written responses will never convey how the post should sound. My part in keeping out of the drama is to not post on controversial threads. There have been many people who have done the same.

Unfortunately, fortunately, everyone has an opinion, what people choose to get out of a post is totally up to them. The only thing that we can do as a community is to not add to the fire by continuing to post on threads that get so heated. It doesn't do any good for anyone. That's my way of dealing with threads of this nature.

[yorkie2luv]

Originally Posted by Wylie's Mom

Well, first and most importantly - hello and blessings in return !

I can see you've put your heart as well as a lot of thought into your post...so I've been sitting here a while trying to think of what I want to say...

...and I'm a little bit stumped .

I appreciate the time you took, and the heart and soul you put into your post.

What stumped me and why I'm struggling to find a way to respond and try to discuss this effectively (or, what I think might be effective, I should clarify) is this: the content of your post seems to be admonishing a whole lot of YT folks for being so judgmental...YET...what I'm hearing in your own tone is...pretty much just judgment...and so...

....I find myself between a rock and a hard place.

****

First, thank you kindly and I'm glad you felt what I was saying.

I can understand how you feel conflicting and respect what you are saying. Yes, it is about being judgmental but so much so that they are scaring and honestly ruining the reputation of this board. I've read when people respond to folks on like Wiki Answers or Yahoo Questions, etc and reference this board because it is the go to source. I'm not trying to be judgmental of others - I'm more of trying to express how disheartening the responses to those needing assistance or insight seems to be and then it makes them feel as if they shouldn't ask anymore.

The tone that is taken with folks leaves a taste in their mouth that is less than to be desirable and they opt not to communicate on here any longer or learn more. I mean how sad is it when someone has to write in response to a post "... don't scare them off..."?

[TammyJM]

I read your post and can appreciate your feelings....but I can say, I find it "head-scratching" confusing when I see similar posts. I find myself truly wondering why this person even wants to be a member here if they have such resentful feelings. I am someone that has had a few "tiffs" with some members, but when I step back and really look at the big picture, I do not dislike any of them (I resepct their feelings and feel like they are good people)....no matter how heated the discussion(s) might be. Typically, it's just because I get worked up over my parti girl and that's only because I love her...but on the other side of the coin, the people that I get upset with equally love their dogs.

Ok, that's my own personal ramble. I am sorry that you are so upset with what you have experienced in the past year on YT. I love being able to share my Yorkie obsession with the members here...who else in the world is going to get it like we all do?

Tammy

[yorkie2luv]

Originally Posted by Mom to Hot Rod

Happy New year to you as well.

I agree with a lot of what you have said. I also want to say that if you go onto an open forum, you will need to develop somewhat of a "thick skin". I don't mean that you need to take "bashing" from anyone, but once it is put out there on the web, the person will get opinions and "what if's". There is no way to keep people from voicing their opinions, experiences and knowledge--good or bad.

I agree that people need to back off on some on some the threads, but unfortunately, written responses will never convey how the post should sound. My part in keeping out of the drama is to not post on controversial threads. There have been many people who have done the same.

Unfortunately, fortunately, everyone has an opinion, what people choose to get out of a post is totally up to them. The only thing that we can do as a community is to not add to the fire by continuing to post on threads that get so heated. It doesn't do any good for anyone. That's my way of dealing with threads of this nature.

*********

I normally don't respond either. I think this is my way of putting it out there after watching for awhile. I'm hoping that this year is a little different because someone put it out there. Just hope people think about it a little more. I mean is 2010 a nice round number? Sounds like a new start. (I have no idea what people mean when they say, round number.)

[BamaFan121s]

I understand your opinions on the issues you have mentioned and you are certainly entitled to them, as we all are. What I find ironic about it is that in posting what you have, you yourself have done the same thing that you are admonishing others for. (An observation that I think Ann actually beat me to.)

What I have found in my years on both this forum, and the other is this: Opinions differ, especially when topics are brought up that people feel so passionately about--a differance of opinions is inevitable. What you or someone else views as "no big deal" or "too late to do anything about" others may feel differently about. Bottom line is, it's the internet, a public forum and we are all different. You can like it or dislike opinions and posting styles as you see fit, but you can't change or control them nor should it be expected that everyone else is going to change their ways to suit others.

(Also, well said Mom to Hot Rod.)

[chachi]

USDA breeders are large comercial breeder. The USDA also oversees livestock

[yorkie2luv]

[QUOTE=TammyJM;2943120]I read your post and can appreciate your feelings....but I can say, I find it "head-scratching" confusing when I see similar posts. I find myself truly wondering why this person even wants to be a member here if they have such resentful feelings. I am someone that has had a few "tiffs" with some members, but when I step back and really look at the big picture, I do not dislike any of them (I resepct their feelings and feel like they are good people)....no matter how heated the discussion(s) might be. Typically, it's just because I get worked up over my parti girl and that's only because I love her...but on the other side of the coin, the people that I get upset with equally love their dogs.

Ok, that's my own personal ramble. I am sorry that you are so upset with what you have experienced in the past year on YT. I love being able to share my Yorkie obsession with the members here...who else in the world is going to get it like we all do?

*****************

Hi Tammy,

I have no hard feelings and I understand. Yet, I'm a different type of person. I have never had a tiff either. I just watch others have them. I'm a member for the knowledge and the wonderful people I have met here. Not for any other reason. There are so many people who don't know of this site until after they get a yorkie and it's like a Yorkie Encyclopedia here.

I'm more disheartened of what I have observed but no one has done anything wrongly to me here. I'm blessed for YT for 2 reasons. 1. Finding my Kikyo and 2. The knowledge that has helped me in being the best Yorkie Parent possible.

So for that I'm thankful.

[RoscoesMommy42]

I do agree with some of what you are saying. I see some threads that I just have to sit back in aww about how worked up it gets. But, like others have said, people have different opinions. I do think sometimes they can be stated a little more calmly, but sometimes when you are passionate about something it comes out strong. Also, I think when you are speaking to someone through typing, it can be taken differently than how it is meant, which then gets things heated for no reason. Anyway, that's just my opinion.

[yorkie2luv]

Originally Posted by BamaFan121s

I understand your opinions on the issues you have mentioned and you are certainly entitled to them, as we all are. What I find ironic about it is that in posting what you have, you yourself have done the same thing that you are admonishing others for. (An observation that I think Ann actually beat me to.)

What I have found in my years on both this forum, and the other is this: Opinions differ, especially when topics are brought up that people feel so passionately about--a differance of opinions is inevitable. What you or someone else views as "no big deal" or "too late to do anything about" others may feel differently about. Bottom line is, it's the internet, a public forum and we are all different. You can like it or dislike opinions and posting styles as you see fit, but you can't change or control them nor should it be expected that everyone else is going to change their ways to suit others.

(Also, well said Mom to Hot Rod.)

I responded to this in my response to Ann. Didn't say I needed to change or control simply point out so people can be a little more understanding of others as it seems people lost the compassion for opinions.

If you notice, by now my responses are even toned and I lack nothing but respect and understanding for what you all are have been commenting.

Please excuse if I don't respond to everyone. I am at work and just returned from my break in which I wrote the post.

I can see how it maybe interpreted that my statements are contradictory, however really understand what I'm saying is to help people w/o making them feel like they wish they never asked a question.