| Author | Subject: Don Mercer (Very bad guy) |
| Carlos | Posted At 19:10:30 07/03/2001
I just get 3 snakes from Don Mercer, all are dead, he try to open holes in the containers but they closed back, They died suffocated. I e-mail Don and ask if I can send the snakes back for proof and this is what he respond : Amazing, I just got off the phone with Airborne and they verified what their web site says; "Box was left at door 10:15am, no signature". Well case closed, sorry you're out of luck. Take further action, I'm ready for it. Don Maybe I lost my money (I use paypal) but I hope this give you guys some advises. |
| Brian Oakley |
I knew this would happen........
5140.html Posted At 19:34:27 07/03/2001 First off, I am not fighting another mans battle. It is a very unfortunate situation, but I disagree. Carlos, you bought three snakes from Don. You two agreed that he would ship yesterday and they would be delivered overnight to you. That means they would be delivered TODAY. With that in mind, you have stated yourself (more or less) that you were not home when the came. Airbirne dropped them off at your house. Now, how can that be the shippers fault? You knew they were coming and you made a conscious decision, knowing they were coming today, not to be there. Nobody but you can control that. Don met his word and shipped them to arrive today. You stated it yourself Carlos......"case closed". To the other readers, I knew this would happen. This is why I posted the question I did a few threads below this. It is something that we all need to think about. What do we do in a case like this? I ship snakes all the time. I set them up in a box to insure safe arrival to the best of my ability. Can I control the fact that the receiver MAY NOT be there. Yes, I know Don. That is probably obvious now. I did not get involved in the post a few weeks ago about him. He can deal with that himself. I chose to get involved though for one VERY interesting reason! This individual is the same person who attacked Don in the thread a few weeks ago. I cannot quote Carlso exactly (you can scroll down and read it if you care to), but it said that a red flag should be put up on Don. That is Don's deal, but why would you say that and then turn around and buy something from him two weeks later? I just find this whole thing very ODD! Like I said before though, this could happen to any of us that ship animals. I am sorry if I have poked my nose into something that is not my business, but this is not right. PS. I argue this with the facts as I know them. Brian Oakley |
| carlos |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5143.html Posted At 20:21:56 07/03/2001 First, When i realize I'm dealing with the same guy We already have the deal setup and don't be right if I cancel the deal. Second. He try to open holes in the containers and they closed back, the snakes died suffocated, that is his fault, if you give me your address i can send you one, and then you can make your own call. |
| Brian Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5144.html Posted At 20:28:05 07/03/2001 You mean to tell me that a box with 2 sides beingn almost intirely made up of screen caused the animals to sufficate? I send snakes and bearded dragons out QUITE often and I use a regular old box, taped across the top where the two flaps meet, with NO HOLES and I have never had a snake die. Those boxes are far from air tight. Just out of curiousity, what did the snakes feel like? Not trying to be gross or sarcastic, but I want to know. As far as not knowing that the 2 Don Mercer's were not the same person, I will just leave that one alone. Brian Oakley |
| Carlos |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5145.html Posted At 20:35:14 07/03/2001 For your information my wife are at home with my kids, she find the snakes at our door at 11.20 AM.That is not a long time if the snakes are delivered at 10.15 AM . Like I say before they died suffocated, they can breath, all the holes are closed. I get suspicious when he e-mail me back with the clarification of the babies butter don't look like adults, that make me check the inquire again and is when I find I'm dealing with the same person. I'm even make a comment to Mr. Mercer about the post in the inquire board and he say I will not be disappointed. |
| Brian Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5146.html Posted At 20:41:29 07/03/2001 Carlos, first let me say that I would like you read the thread below this one you started. It was started by me. I wrote it wanting to know other peoples opinions on this matter. Please read it. Some of (if not all) of these people ship WAY MORE than I do. As far as him telling you that they do not look the way they will as adults. That is true. Same thing with Snow corns, Blood corns, Albino Corns. So they sat on your front door step for nearly an hour? Depending on how hot the concrete was or if they were in direct sun could definately kill them in less than an hour. |
| Carlos |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5147.html Posted At 20:47:47 07/03/2001 Brian, How do you know the boxes have 2 sides screened, But any way you can send in those boxes with screen but IF YOU DON"T MAKE HOLES in THE CONTAINERS how the snakes will breath. I know you try hard but Like I say You have to be contacting Mr. Mercer to help him in this one because not were I say the boxes are screened at the sides. Good Try, but you have to think before you write. Answering your question, about how the snakes feel like, why you don't put your self in a plastic container without holes and make the trip from Louisiana to Miami in a box.Try and let me know. |
| Carlos |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5148.html Posted At 20:52:26 07/03/2001 Yes right, and they smell as soon they are dead.You try hard. |
| ritchie |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5150.html Posted At 21:03:10 07/03/2001 uhh carlos? When he said he wanted to know what the snakes felt like...I think you misunderstood. I don't think he meant how would you or him feel all cooped up in a box and shipped. I think...In fact I know what he meant was...where they warm or cold to the touch...What did they feel like? were they limp?...were they stiff? That is what he meant |
| Ken Harbart |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5153.html Posted At 21:10:02 07/03/2001 Here's my take on it... The probability of the snakes "suffocating" is remote at best. The meatbolism of snakes is such that even if left in a sealed deli cup overnight, they would not smother. The air would be stagnant, but the snake would be alive In this case, holes had been made to allow for ventilation, but the holes "closed back up". This is also a point to be contested- unless the properties of plastic have somehow changed and it is now cohesive, there would still be limited ventilation. The most probable cause of the snakes' death is not the way they were packaged, but where they were left. Unless you live in Maine, the Upper Penninsula of Michigan, northern Minnesota or Alaska, chances are pretty darn good that they cooked on the porch. A snake can die from heat stress in a matter of five minutes, so there was more than enough time for that. |
| KAREN |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5154.html Posted At 21:11:07 07/03/2001 OK Mr. Carlos... from what I understand from your post Don shipped you some snakes and they came in dead... but you did not say if you WERE there to recieve them, and/or if you KNEW that the snakes were coming in today. There were obviously holes in the box, because you said there were. I have dealt with Don Mercer a couple of times in the past, I don't know him personally, but have never had a problem with him. He has always packed his animals good, and they have always arrived healthy. I don't want to seem like I am taking sides in this matter, all I am saying is that maybe you should rethink this whole situation before blowing it all out of proportion. Like I stated before, maybe you were not home when the snakes were delivered? And if that is the case then realize that you made a mistake in this situation. We are all adults here, and things can be resolved in an adult manner. But there's no reason to "bash" someone when you "seem" to be in a "fit of anger" Good Luck!! |
| Brian Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5155.html Posted At 21:13:32 07/03/2001 Carlos, Ritchie explained it perfectly. I feel bad for the snakes, but I want to know what they felt like when you touched them. Second, I knew they were in a screen box because, yes, Don told me. BOTTOM LINE: you made a mistake, maybe not intentionally, but you did. Unfortunate, but we learn from our mistakes and experiences. Brian Oakley |
| Don Mercer |
I AM SCUM!!! OH F***IN WELL!!!
5159.html Posted At 21:20:52 07/03/2001 Here we go again!!! Once again I was going to be nice about this, but I honestly can't tolerate STUPID people!!! Carlos, get a F***IN LIFE!!! I was going to go into details about our deal, but you are just not worth the aggravation. I sold you 3 corns. Yes. I shipped yesterday. Yes. I asked what the weather was like by you and if I needed a cold pack. You said, "weather is not too hot and it is cloudy". I packed the snakes in Pro-Kal 8oz clear deli cups WITH holes, you lier, and then placed them in a cricket box with vented screen lids, surrounded by newspaper. You say the vents were closed, I say open. It really doesn't matter. If you had been there to receive them as you were expected to be, I would not be wasting my time writing this. You were home at 10:41am, I have the proof of this. Snakes were delivered at 10:15am, have proof of this. You finally email me almost 6 hours later wanting to know what I am going to do for you about the 3 dead snakes you alledgedly received. (I'm waiting for pics). I'll tell you what I will do. NOT A DAMN THING! Where the H**l were you when Airborne rang your bell or knocked on your door? Any responseable person would have been sitting and waiting for those animals. You are truly a sad case. Trying to blame me for your shear stupidity. Once again I have probably gone overboard and handle this in the wrong way. Do I care? H**L NO!! Willyour childish behavior affect me? Not a chance. Will I still sell snakes and lizards weekly? For MANY years to come!! I can not tolerate stupid people or the stupid things they do. Oh well, nobodys perfect. Atleast I have the guts to come out and speak my mind. Lets take this one step further. I have been selling via the internet since the great site Kingsnake.com was first started (early '90s). Sad thing is, I have NEVER had a problem or complaint up until about 2-2.5 years ago. Why? Cause back then you didn't have all these pathetic children online who thought the knew everything and that they could do no wrong. Well children, time to grow up and realize that us "oldtimers" are not going to take your pathetic BS and fall for your crap! Carlos, you truly are a sad, pathetic child. You screwed up, take the blame like a real man, and get over it. The Disgusting, Childish, Dishonest, Immature, Don Mercer |
| Carlos |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5167.html Posted At 21:49:23 07/03/2001 Don,You are the only one what have to grow like a person, every time you use the same language and use insults. I buy 100+ snakes in the two last years. And from all the guys I have to deal with you are the less professional and ethic of all. You always call any one, children. Why you don't look your self and then make the call. What I don't understand is how can be people like you doing business.You are the only liar here.I have all your e-mails saved and they will be useful. |
| Don Mercer |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5169.html Posted At 22:03:29 07/03/2001 Like I told you via private email, "Bring it on!" What do you have in email that I don't? I have ALL the FACTS of our deal and will GLADLY share them with anybody who wants to see them. YOU ARE WRONG as EVERYBODY eles thus far has stated. Be a man, if at all possible, and let it go. No one is being hurt by this but you. Like I have stated before, stupid, childish people annoy the h**l out of me! If people would just use common sence, most problems could be resolved without conflict. But then again, I LOVE CONFLICT!! I just may handle it in the wrong way. I am a very easy going, understanding person until you step on me then look out! I eagerly await your reply!!!! Once again, Th Disgusting, Childish, Immature, Dishonest, Don Mercer P.S Damn I love this!!!! |
| carlos |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5170.html Posted At 22:14:46 07/03/2001 Don. Let see if all your supporters think the same when they read your first e-mail after i inform you that the snakes are dead.That what I call courtesy and professional This is your answer : Amazing, I just got off the phone with Airborne and they verified what their web site says; "Box was left at door 10:15am, no signature". Well case closed, sorry you're out of luck. Take further action, I'm ready for it. Don I hope guys like you will be an endangered spice in the WEB business in a couple months |
| Don Mercer |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5172.html Posted At 22:33:41 07/03/2001 I realize you have 2 email addresses, one at Hotmail and one at Miami edu. First one is probably home, second, work? Must be a janitor with your grammer! I know, uncalled for, but EVERYBODY has been thinking it! You should see the personal emails I am receiving. TOOOOOO funny!! I'll be around for a LONGGGGGGGG time, scary, isn't it? Oh, by the way, this is just my personal opinion, he could be a Proffesor for all I know. HAHAHEHEHEHOHOHO I know my spelling sucks, Don Mercer |
| Carlos |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5175.html Posted At 22:48:23 07/03/2001 Don, That is in the only thing were you are a professional : not respecting other peoples, is funny for you but You don't think is a million of peoples out there, Let see who loss more. My hobby is the snakes , but your food coming from them. |
| Jeremy Rennison |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5177.html Posted At 22:55:11 07/03/2001 This sitiuation could have been avoided so easily, by carlos takeing responsibility for his actions... I have done what he has, foregot about a shipment, left for 20 minutes, found the snakes on the porch, dead... I felt the same way, but I didn't go about it like this, no, I learned from that mistake,unlike carlso, lol... lets just leave it at that... carlos, you are pretty pathetic.. I mean, everbody is right about what they are saying.... everbody... c ya |
| KAREN |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5178.html Posted At 23:08:59 07/03/2001 OK children (Don and Carlos)... Carlos Jeremy made a good point... you ARE writing all this stuff out of anger, it's not professional either (what you are posting), you should be dealing with this with Don, and Don ONLY... you are just making yourself look bad by writing what you did. Everyone has a loss sometime in their professional life... and like everyone is writing THIS SHOULD BE A LEARNING EXPERIENCE. Maybe next time you will make sure you are home to receive your package. But on the contrary... DON that janitor comment was WAY out of line, just my opinion... Both of you need to act like professional adults... CASE CLOSED GOOD LUCK! |
| Brian Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5180.html Posted At 23:18:25 07/03/2001 I just want to say that I am now considering this matter solved. I would like to ad that I again feel sorry that these snakes died. Bottom line is that the receiver is at fault. The shipper could do nothing to help the matters and is not responsible. I did post this today with a HUGE hunch that this exact story was going to come out on here sometime today. I wanted to get some opinions from people. This is something that happens from time to time. I have read forums like this before where someone is being bashed publicly for something that was out of their hands. THIS time I knew enough to speak my feelings on this matter. I am not sticking up for Don because I know him. I am sticking up for a shipper in this trade. This could have been you that this happened to and I would have felt the same way. I think it is unfortunate that people come out like this and try to tarnish ones name. To Rich, I appologize for any uproar I have made, I hope you understand my reasoning. Carlos, this was never personal. You were wrong though. I will not be responding to anything else on either of these threads. I think I have proven the point I wanted to make. Best wishes, Brian Oakley |
| Ken Harbart |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5181.html Posted At 23:19:13 07/03/2001 Franc, you are confusing Federal regulations with a company's on INTERNAL policies and procedures. There is no Federal prohibition banning the use of airlines to ship snakes of any type. |
| KAREN |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5185.html Posted At 00:10:21 07/04/2001 I think that Brian is totally correct in what he wrote, this matter should be closed all together, and shipping methods is a TOTALLY DIFFERENT SUBJECT... so start a new post!! There is no more that can be said on the Carlos vs Don post that has NOT ALREADY BEEN SAID... Good Night All!! |
| Mark Kennedy |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5186.html Posted At 00:54:38 07/04/2001 As far as I know, a cardboard box with a styrofoam insert is the PROPER WAY to ship a live reptile, not a cricket box. I just recieved a very expensive python shipped in the proper box, very hot temps, no holes drilled and she got here fine. |
| KAREN |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5188.html Posted At 01:51:35 07/04/2001 Well, styrophome is probably the correct way to ship reptiles, I think a cricket box gives proper ventilation for any animal... I think the heat of sitting in the direct sun for a period of time, or just sitting in the heat is what caused the death of these snakes. CASED CLOSED... I don't think they could have died in just shipping in a Cricket box. |
| Ken Harbart |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5193.html Posted At 06:35:39 07/04/2001 Franc, I am quite familiar with Feeral regulations regarding shipping live animals. Perhaps it is YOU who needs to double-check your facts. The shipment of live reptiles via the airlines is not expressly prohibited by any governmental agency, whether it be FAA, DOT, or USDA. Additionally, there is no prohibition in the CFR or USC. Why not enlighten us all with a reference to the specific section that you are claiming exists? Also, while you're at it, you may wish to notify ALL of the major airlines that they have been in violation of Federal law, since they routinely accept reptile cargo. Let's not use forget the AZA and AAZK either, since air cargo is one of the PREFERRED methods of shipping just about all livestock. |
| Don Mercer |
Farewell,Good-Bye, Amen
5195.html Posted At 07:21:02 07/04/2001 To Mark: Your missing the point. Styro or no styro, the snakes were left outside for at least one hour, more then likely much longer, and would have made no difference in this situation. Styro is great in cold weather with a heat pack, or warm weather with a cold pack, but is unnessesary during mild temps. There is no "proper way" to ship. MANY people use cricket boxes. They are more durable then most boxes and do have the advantage of vented sides. To All: I am sorry this got out of hand and the way I handle things. I have taken this pretty much as a joke and probably should have been more mature about it. I did not intend to insult or offend anybody, well maybe one individual. :) I do promise to refrain from insults and fowl language in the future when my name is brought up again, as I'm sure it will. I hope everyone has learned by this and has realized this can happen to any one of you. Bottom line is think before you act or react for that matter. Admit to your own faults. Live and learn. To The Webmaster: Thank you for letting this thread run even though several people did not leave full names or email addresses. You must admit, it has been entertaining. Thanks Rich! And finally To Carlos: The jury of my peers has spoken, and has found me NOT GUILTY. Will you accept this? No is my guess. You have been struggling to stay a float thru this whole thing. You blamed no holes in the box, (untrue), that was shot down by people. You then blamed the holes in the deli cups for "closing up", this was shot down also. What do you have to go on? Take the blame yourself. I was wrong for making some of my comments and insults, but I am not sorry. The only mistake I feel I made thru our deal was relying on you for your weather conditions. I should have checked it myself and used a cold pack. Those snakes would be alive today even after sitting at your door for hours. Live and learn. I do expect pictures from you of the box, deli cups, and snakes, like you said you would send. I will even post the pics on my web site for the world to see. Do you have pics? Will you have pics? Are the snakes even dead? Only time will tell. You have threatened by private email to contact Kingsnake.com, Airborne, PayPal, and animal cruelty about this situation. What do you think they will say? I'll tell ya; the same thing everybody else here has said, that YOU ARE WRONG. I wish you the best in the future, but maybe you should find a new hobby. One last thing, this is my hobby, I make my living as a male prostitute. LOL Later, Bye, Buy, By, Caio, Chow, TTFN, Adios, Don Mercer |
| Ken Harbart |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5197.html Posted At 08:08:33 07/04/2001 Just to piggyback on my previous reply- the FAA reg of any consequence regarding the "legality" of shipping live animals is that which governs the acceptence of cargo from known/unknown shippers. In the instance of unknown shippers, the FAA allows the carrier to still accept the cargo- so long as it is opened and inspected by, or in the presence of an airline employee. UPS, Airborne, etc., have their own INTERNAL policies by which they refuse some types of animal shipments. A shipper who sends snakes via UPS, Airborne, or any other private carrier that prohibits them is in violation of no Federal laws, only those companies' internal regulations. Cros-reference: Title 14; CFR- Aeronautics and Space Title 9; CFR- Animals and Animal Products FAA Office of Rulemaking |
| Jason Thurber |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5200.html Posted At 09:20:05 07/04/2001 I don't know either one of the parties involved in this "issue", but..... Right or wrong, I would not do business w/this Don fellow. He reacts like a child. Anyone that's conserned about their reputation wouldn't come on here and include f*ck this and f*ck that in their rebuttal. I think integrity to this Don fellow is as foreign as Carlos himself. By the way, does Mr. Mercer speak Spanish any better than this Carlos speaks English? Just a thought. |
| Tom Chambers |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5206.html Posted At 09:59:11 07/04/2001 Bingo Jason! Carlos DEFINITELY was in the wrong here...no question. And I would have WANTED to post exactly what Don did....but there is NO WAY that I would have made myself look so ugly as he did by bashing the guy about how stupid he is. I'm glad Don has realized this too, and posted a MUCH more professional reply....anger is NOT a good author! BTW - some of these FAA posts REEK of arrogance.....nothing wrong with being right....but why belittle someone to make your point? Can't we all discuss such things without trying to flame with every reply? My .02 TC |
| Webmaster |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5207.html Posted At 10:06:27 07/04/2001 Actually, I haven't really been following this thread. Had a migraine headache so I've had to limit my looking at the monitor. But be that as it may, ALL posts made without a full name or valid email address will be deleted. Which means ALL from 'Carlos', 'Karen', 'Franc', SHAWN', and 'Ritchie'. You all can tag another message with your full names owning up to the messages in this thread and I'll overlook it, otherwise they will all be gone by later on tonight. Sure is going to make this thread funny looking with all of those holes, but if I don't sure as shoot someone else will read this thread and think the rules have gone away. I've already had one person post a message to identify himself as a 'Carlos' other than the one mentioned in this thread because of that lack of a full name. Please guys, stop giving me extra work to do and follow the rules. |
| Mark Kennedy |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5210.html Posted At 10:49:22 07/04/2001 I'm sorry but I think the vented sides of a cricket box is a disadvantage because the vents let the heat in. If the snakes had been packed in a box with a styro insert they would have been protected from the heat and still be alive. |
| Mark Kennedy |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5211.html Posted At 10:58:22 07/04/2001 Carlos emailed me and told me neither the box or the invoice was marked "live reptiles" so how was the driver supposed to know not to leave it sitting in the sun? This guy deserves his money back, in my opinion and if it was me on the selling end thats just what I would do. |
| Carlos Lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5214.html Posted At 11:17:09 07/04/2001 I just contact Airborne Express about that .The box no were say Live animals or reptiles.Don Mercer mark the box "FRAGILE". The airbill don't is marked as Live Animals . This is why they left the box at my door, they will be more carefull if the box or the airbill will be marked "LIVE ANIMALS" But I notice of only 3-4 peoples are the ones replaying this thread, in favor to Don Mercer They are Don Mercer friend or partners.Any professional Herper don't send snakes in the way he send this ones. Like Don Mercer say in his message, Hi better start taking care of his real living style than this one To the webmaster, is your page , you do what you have to do.When I post my first message you delete that saying is too strong, but in the other hand DON MERCER can use all his insults and look live that is perfect for you, I know this is your page. Sorry but I have to make this remark. |
| Karen Clegg |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5215.html Posted At 11:22:28 07/04/2001 Sorry webmaster!!! This is my full name |
| Webmaster |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5216.html Posted At 11:27:23 07/04/2001 Carlos - I told you that I would not allow inflamatory language in the topic line, that (BAD GUY) is about as strong as I want that line to read. I said nothing at all about the text in the message portion. If you will reread my email, you will certainly see that this is EXACTLY what I said to you. Matter of fact, I will duplicate EXACTLY the email I sent you right here: "Carlos, Sorry, but I do not think the topic line of your latest message is appropriate for the forum. It is abusive and inflammatory. Putting (BAD GUY) is descriptive enough, and you can elaborate in the text of your message. I am going to delete the message, but you can repost another one that is a bit more civil in the topic line. Thanks." I don't know how I could have been any clearer than that. |
| Ken Harbart |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5220.html Posted At 12:25:47 07/04/2001 My apologies....my German shepherd somehow transmitted that before I was done typing. 2.) The holes in the deli cups may have "closed back up" but their making an airtight seal is imposssible. There still would have been some airflow. 3.) Reptiles can overheat and die within a matter of minutes. Trust me, I've inadvertently done it before. 4.) Just as with any organism, heat would speed up the decomposition. The onset of lividity, putrefication, and rigor would be very rapid. Several years ago, I lost some animals as a result of me stupidly overloading a dimmer switch and it subsequently shorting it out while I was gone. I had left my snake room for no more than 45 minutes, and returned to the odor of putrefying snakes. Although I, along with most others, feel that heat stress was what most likely killed the snakes, it would be in your best interest to have one of them necropsied. As long as you didn't freeze them, a vet may be able to tell you for certain if it was heat stress or anoxia that caused their demise. |
| Brian Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5222.html Posted At 12:48:45 07/04/2001 I know I had said that I would not speak to any of this before, but something strange has happened since I started the thread below. Things have a way of coming around in this world. Carlos, I do want you to pay CLOSE attention to the story I have and tell me how I would be at fault. On Monday I shipped out a pair of bearded dragons using the Postal Service (Post office). They were in a box that was 12" long, 8" wide, and about 3-4" deep/ I put tape across the top and the put that box into another box that was approximately 18" all the way around. This box had no holes in it. Inside the bigger box I put bubble wrap to keep them from being bounced around. With that in mind, they were sent and paid for next day delivery. Guess what? They did not come yesterday and as of yet have not come today either. I spoke with the receiver by way of email as he shared this with me. I spoke to the post office this morning and they told me I could go get my money back for the shipping fee. I asked "what about the animals?" That is my main concern. After having this conversation with the USPS I called the receiver. His words to me were "it is out of your control". Now if they were to show up and be dead, is that my fault. NO! I paid for a service and they did not come through. The SAME thing happened in the above case. A service was paid for and one of the involved parties did not come through. In this case it was the receiver (Carlos). They were not there or did not answer the door. MAKES NO DIFFERENCE WHAT ARGUMENTS ONE WANTS TO MAKE! The facts are the facts. The animals in my case will most likely survive. Bearded dragons are tough lil critters. IF they were to come in dead, I would be SHOCKED to have the individual in my case even think of asking for his money back. I met my obligation. I sent them when I said I would. Don did THE SAME THING. Yes, there are a few differences in these two cases, but at the same time they are MUCH alike. Shipper did what they said they would do. If you did not understand it the first time around, we can always have all these same people voice their opinion in my case as well. (NOT REALLY NEEDED THOUGH FOLKS!) :) I would be very upset for the receiver AND the dragons if they do not survive the trip, but these sort of things happen when shipping anything. The questions I asked really do not deserve an answer. In fact nothing I said deserves a response. I just wanted to share this story, very odd this would happen to me of all people after all this. As before, I will not be responding any further to these two threads. Well I might let everyone know if they made it OK! Brian Oakley |
| Carlos Lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5226.html Posted At 13:04:01 07/04/2001 Brian, like I say all the time, you are Don Mercer Good friend. You are in contact with him before since I e-mail him telling him I will post a thread in here, You are the only one what know he ship in a cricket box far before I make that comment in here. In reference to your case, if you ship in the same way Dom Mercer do. You will have the same fault. The carrier doesn’t know they delivering live animals if you don't mark the box or make a note in the air bill. Sorry but from the beginning you are at his side. If you are so good friend of him you have to know all this is his FAULT. |
| Carlos Lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5228.html Posted At 13:12:41 07/04/2001 Brian, you force me to answer the same question in the two thread. Her go again. Can you compare Bearded dragons witha new born snakes? Youy are a GOOD HERPER. |
| Brian Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5233.html Posted At 13:40:12 07/04/2001 Follow up: The dragons arrived and he said they appear to be fine. Carlos, I NEVER compared the two. I only said what I had shipped. Thank you for letting me know i am a "GOOD HERPER". I strive to be the best I can be. I have made mistakes, but I learn from them. Try it! Please do me the favor of not responding to anything Carlos. You will save yourself ALOT of grief and ongoing frustration. NOTHING will change in this except MAYBE your perception of things. Farewell FOR GOOD! |
| Ritchie Luna |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5238.html Posted At 13:41:12 07/04/2001 Luna Carlos I only put fragile on my boxes. I never put airholes in my boxes. There was only two times I put holes in my boxes. One of those times the snakes almost died. And yes I have shipped lots of baby snakes. I get your point. The snakes where not out on your front porch for too long, so they should not have been putrid or even dead for that matter. My point is this. Those snakes died during shipment. They did not suffocate. They over heated. You told the shipper that the weather was fine....that it was not too warm. But you said on the day you received the snakes the temperature was 90. I am sure if you would have told him what the temperature was he would have put a cooling thingy. I freak out if temperatures get close to 90. I put cooling things for temperatures above 84. I once shipped to a guy who told me the temperature was kinda cool. So I delivered with a heating pad. Then I watched the weather channel only to figure out that his kinda cool was 82 - 85 good thing the snake did not get cooked with my heater thing in there. We go by what customers tell us. If they say it is cool then we add heater things. If they say it is just right...then we ship as is. If they say it is warm then we add cooling thingies. If they say it is just right and it was really in the 90 then too bad too sad. You informed me of the wrong temperature. Not only that...I don't guarantee above 90 By the way carlos...he said that your experiences are a little different. He did not say that bearded dragons are the same as baby snakes. Oh and Franc if there is a federal regulation against shipping with the airlines...then some one better tell DELTA, and US AIR |
| Ritchie Luna |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5241.html Posted At 13:56:13 07/04/2001 Hey Ken. Read the posts....someone said you reek of arrogance. I guess once you start sounding all legal and your language starts going over the udeucateds heads. All of a sudden you reek of arrogance. That is too funny. Ken I must say your posts are always inteligent. And sometimes you post as if you are reading straight out of the regulations that govern this fine trade of ours. You sound like all the contracts I have signed. And as aforementioned, some people who are less fortunate than us all of a sudden find your post arrogant. Probably threatening too. But keep it up. You always end up educating me Thanks for all the valuable shipping info as well as all the info you seem to know about our chosen hobby |
| Carlos Lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5247.html Posted At 14:31:53 07/04/2001 Brian, I have the right to answer your messages or you want this go only at your way.I'm not frustated,The Airborne Customer Services want the Box, Paypal will contact the carrier to see the facts. At the end the truth will public. |
| BLUEGRASS HERP - Kris Mays |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5249.html Posted At 14:40:08 07/04/2001 If my point has already been stated above, please forgive this point. I quit reading about half-way up.... It just occurs to me that this can be avoided easily by requiring a SIGNATURE. I never ship without requiring someone to sign for the package. Just my .02.... Kris |
| Carlos Lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5256.html Posted At 15:24:55 07/04/2001 I know all will be clarified as soon, Airborne open tomorrow, I Paypal ask this guy for and the currier about the shipping boxes, Both of them protect they costumer again this. Only I can THANK GOD that out of the 16 snakes I ask Mr. DON MERCER to send me hi only has 3 available and the other will be sended later.Now Never. |
| Briaqn Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5260.html Posted At 16:01:21 07/04/2001 Just wanted to publicly thank Rich for his time. Rich, it was a pleasure to talk with you today. Hopefully we can do so again under different circumstances. To everyone else that has read AND responded to these two threads.......I thank you. I think it is good for people to get involved in matters such as this. No matter what side you take, your words were appreciated. I at NO TIME was taking sides. I can see how one might feel "ganged up on" because I know Don Mercer. Like I stated before, Don can fight his own battles, but I can voice my thoughts if I choose to. I have remained civil, professional, polite, and curtious through it all. I just want to make sure my integrity is still in tact. Don can handle this as he and only he sees fit. I will have to say, after talking to Rich on the phone, I really do not know what I would do if I were in this position. I do lean one way, but there were some fair arguments. I think OR at least hope, that this has been a learning expedrience for all involved. Whether it be marking a box, holes or no holes, liner or no liner, just make sure that if you are the shipper that you state everything in an email or on your website. This way, both sides know what is expected and this will be avoided in the future. Carlos, I wish you the best in you days to come with your snakes. This was never personal NOR was I trying to control it and "have it my way" as you put it. I was simply trying to get you to save your energy and keep me from having to post anything more. I wanted out of this last night, but I figured I started something, I should probably respond if it was needed. If you do follow through with what you say you are going to do....great. Email me the results. I truely would be anxious to see them. It could teach me something OR it could confirm what I already thought. Either way, I would be curious. You can get my email address on any of my posts here. Please understand that I will not discuss this matter any further. I would only want to hear the results. I think it still is a matter ALL herpers should view. I must now move on in my life. I have speant pleanty of time the last 24 hours with these threads. I too have snakes hatching, snakes to feed, cages to clean, and boxes to be shipped.........not to mention my "day" job. Respectfully, Brian Oakley PS. Rich, your services here are appreciated |
| Tom Chambers |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5266.html Posted At 18:16:14 07/04/2001 Hey Ritchie, Apparently, arrogance loves company. You make an assumption that I am somehow less fortunate or educated than yourself because I pointed out that while intelligent and correct, the poster seemed to flame the other guy while making his point? That is one of the most ignorant statements I have ever read in my life. Not something I would expect from someone as obviously wealthy and highly educated as you are. BTW - I note that you knew which post I was talking about in regards to the arrogance right away! TC |
| Ritchie Luna |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5272.html Posted At 19:13:57 07/04/2001 Yes I know which post you were talking about right away.... Because I did a study in sociology where inteligence education and self confidence are automatically associated with being arrogant. He did not belittle anyone. He was making a point and all of a sudden from left field, someone says he should read the regulations before posting about them. And that he did not know what he was talking about. so he had to defend himself. And since he defended himself all of a sudden he was arrogant. I did not intentionally mean to sound like you were less fortunate. I just assumed that anyone with inteligence would understand his post and would know that he was just defending his position without trying to sound like a flame. I was not flaming you...I was not even talking to you but you want to start a flame war because you are somehow unsure of yourself or whatever....I really don't care. And if you say my post is ignorant just because I wan to thank a guy for always enlightening me....well that is your problem |
| Ritchie Luna |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5275.html Posted At 19:24:53 07/04/2001 Well this is starting to be a flame war....so I am outa here. To all I offended.....my HUMBLE aoplogies. I gotta go to work.....on a fourth of July to. A soldiers work is never done. Good Luck to all and peace to all. keep me entertained and keep the good information rolling. peace |
| Carlos Lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5289.html Posted At 23:13:59 07/04/2001 To all the herp community. After think twice and ask for few advises I decide not to go any further in this problem, I don't go to involve all those agencies like the Animal Right or Airborne Express, That only will bring problems to our herp community. I prefer to look like the looser than create big problems to our hobby. Thank you to all of you guys. Carlos Lahitte |
| Tom Burns |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5299.html Posted At 10:09:21 07/05/2001 Good decision Carlos! And thanks for exposing a couple of real A-holes. I will learn from your mistake & not deal with any of these jerk off's that obviously don't give a shit what happens to the animals after they ship them, as long as they get paid. Don, your lucky it wasn't somebody more important (sorry carlos) on the other end of that half-assed, unprofessional shipment. But then again, it's real easy to blame the customer for not giving you an accurate weather forecast, do you have a TV Don? And what about REQUIRING a signature? Or properly identifying the contents of the package? Oh well, none of these things are gonna put more money in your pocket, so what's the point?... |
| Brian Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5302.html Posted At 11:33:29 07/05/2001 Tom, just out of curiousity....who are "couple of real A-holes"? I think you should think twice if you are counting me in that. If I am an asshole for speaking my opinion then I suppose everyone is an asshole. No, I am not mad. No, I am not attacking you. I was just struck a little funny by the plural (more than one). Please do not take this as a "flame war", or anything. Like I have stated from the beginning, this is not personal. It is simply my biew and others to a situation, NOT a person. Let's keep it that way. Brian Oakley |
| Tom Burns |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5304.html Posted At 12:31:17 07/05/2001 Brian, The answer to your question was in the next sentence: "these jerk off's that obviously don't give a shit what happens to the animals after they ship them, as long as they get paid." If you don't fit into this catagory, then it wasn't directed at you... |
| Brian Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5306.html Posted At 13:06:41 07/05/2001 OK! Forunately for me and those who have bought from me, I have never had an animal die. Brian Oakley |
| Carlos lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5307.html Posted At 13:20:59 07/05/2001 Really we never know who is good or bad if they don't are in a similar situation, what is interesting is how they handled a situation like this one. You can be lucky and don't loose any animal but what happens if they do. How they react. That can make the difference |
| Brian Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5308.html Posted At 13:30:56 07/05/2001 Carlos, I do see your point. I cannot speak on that since it has never happened to me. I also cannot tell anyone else what they should do in a situation like this. I WILL say though, that in the future I will make sure there is nothing left out between myself and those I sell to. Example: signature or no signature, liner or no liner, etc. As long as BOTH parties know how things will occur then it would be impossible to argue! Brian Oakley |
| Ritchie Luna |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5320.html Posted At 19:40:21 07/05/2001 Good point Los. You never know what people will do in such a situation. Shoot I still don't know what I would do. I just pack them the best way imaginable and pray real hard that the delivery people don't do anything bad to them like lose them or leave them out in the heat or something. I guess either my packing...or my prayers have been working. On another note. This monday I received a delivery from federal express. It was supposed to get here the friday before. That is four or five days (depends on how you count). They were real hot when they got here. The fed ex dude rang the bell and practically ran away. I guess he did not want to hear me bitch at him. Needless to say fed ex is now gone from my list of shipping choices. Which only leaves me.(ups, usps delta , usair) Good luck all |
| Tom Burns |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5326.html Posted At 21:23:38 07/05/2001 I would like to apologize for being so harsh in my original post. It was not intended to offend anyone who has stated an opinion in this thread. I was (and still am) very put off by the level of immaturity & total disrespect shown by Don towards a paying customer of his. Regardless of who's right or wrong in this particular situation, I will never do business with him as a result of the way he chose to handle this situation. I suggest everybody re-read his original responses to Carlos, then try to imagine that he was talking to YOU, about an animal that YOU just purchased with YOUR hard earned money. Regardless of his shipping methods, is this the kind of person you want to do business with? Goodbye... |
| Steve Schindler |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5330.html Posted At 22:24:11 07/05/2001 This is in response to brians post regarding shipping, and in particular the following comment "I met my obligation. I sent them when I said I would. Don did THE SAME THING" I beg to differ here. In my opinion, it is up to the shipper to make sure the package arrives safely. I know that you can not control the weather, or if the carrier misplaces the package, but that is the chance YOU have to take when selling a product. Now, if the buyer misinforms you (tells you it will be 75 degrees when really its 95) or insists on using a particular carrier thats different. I know this is a controversial topic (i recall the rec.pets.herp group went through it a while back)and really there is no right or wrong opinion. justifications can be made for either side. I understand both sides. I also feel that it is good business to have this attitude. I just feel that if you initiate a transaction by posting an item for sale, be it on a website, or a newsgroup, or any other medium, YOU have the responsibility to make sure it arrives safely. and this responsibility goes past SENDING THEM WHEN I SAID I WOULD I guess the opinions on this would probably be pretty much be split depending on if you are primarily a buyer or a seller. Steve S |
| Brian Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5378.html Posted At 10:04:22 07/06/2001 Steve, Let's take the money part out of this for a minute. I know that is what REALLY makes it sensative. I had this same conversation with Rich Z. on the phone the other day. This has nothing to do with what I would do if I were in this position. Point is, I was not trying to come across as, I got my money, I handed it to the delivery company, so that is it. If you really think about it how can ANYONE control what a company does? If I was a contractor and sub-contracted my work out, one of the guys I hired damaged your house while doing a repair. Yes, I hired the sub-contractor to work on your house. Does the money for repairs come out of my pocket? No. Should I get with the sub-contractor and see that it is fixed at their expense? Yes. I THINK the same should apply here. I would DEFENATELY help in any way I could, but.....nevermind. Maybe in the future if this happens the buyer should get half the money back and the seller gets half. Steve, I do not have THE CORRECT answer so to speak. I have never been in this position like I said the other day. I still think as long as BOTH parties are well aware of how things should happen, confirm how the buyer wants it packed, signature or no signature, and everything else, this could not be argued. It HAS to be on an individual case and be set up with the parties involved. I give up!!! I have NO IDEA what is "right". Should the seller refund all the money and be out the money AND the snakes? Should the buyer lose his money and be out the money AND the snakes? WHO KNOWS! LOL Either way there wqil be someone losing, unfortuante, but true. Take care, Brian Oakley |
| Carlos Lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5384.html Posted At 11:21:23 07/06/2001 Brian, Do you think any of us can go to Airborne Express and ask for a reimbursement for the lost? They will tell you : We don't ship live snakes, Them What? I get screw any way lest drop this. With all this I’m learn something. Never buy a snake if the guy is not a professional breeder. |
| Brian oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5385.html Posted At 11:46:20 07/06/2001 Carlos, I know and already knew what Airborne would say. of course they do not ship snakes. If you want to drop it then drop it Carlos. You see, if you read my last post it was directed to Steve. Not that you cannot respond, but I am missing the point here. Brian |
| Walter Hudson |
Late post
5387.html Posted At 11:54:16 07/06/2001 Carlos might be right but in no case has a fight because he was not there to sign for the package but as for Airborne, more often than not, even if you were there to receive the package they dont always ask you to sign for it. I have even experienced them leaving my package in my garage door without ringing the bell. For this reasons, I always ask the seller to request for a signature even if it costs a little bit more. Those delivery persons just dont care wether its a live animal or not. They just want to take off and dispose all those boxes as soon as poss. For Brian, yr attitude of not wanting to do anything with the animals after it gets off ur hands means u dont care for ur customers. Seller should take the burden of reimbursing the insurance from the shipper!(if the animal was insured) and replacing the animal without any problem(OF course considering that he/she has SIGNED for the package). BTW I salute BLUEGRASS HERP with this mentality(previous post)! They stand with the quality of their animals and would guarantee everything until the animal is received in GOOD CONDITION. For Mercer, Please be more PROFESSIONAL when dealing with problems like this. A more STRAIGHTFORWARD(minus those cursing) response from you would be more appropriate. Given the same situation, I would have phoned Carlos and explained everything through actual conversation as letters/emails often misleads the other person(You sounded rude in ur email, i dont know if u really meant that). I just cant imagine going to a store returning a defective item and gets cursed by the store manager. |
| Carlos Lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5388.html Posted At 11:56:05 07/06/2001 Brian, I respond to you comment about the contractor and subcontractor. In this case who is the subcontractor, Airborne?do you go to them ask for reimbursement and open a PANDORA box? You can't compare apples and oranges. |
| Brian Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5389.html Posted At 12:08:48 07/06/2001 Carlos, you are right, that is why I stopped typing and put ".....nevermind". It is different. Walter and everyone else, I NEVER said I would not replace anything. I do not know what is right. I have said that over and over. Like I also said, someone has to lose the snakes and the money. I just said it is unfortunate EITHER WAY. ONE POINT (something new). To the best of my knowledge, Delta is the only one that guarantees live arrival (I have not used other AIR carriers). If no other company will guarantee live arrival when it is in their hands, then how can I? I know Airborne is a bad example in this being that they do not ship animals anyway, but the USPS does and they are the same way. When the time comes (hopefully it does not) where I am in this position I will handle it professionally and so both sides are happy....to the best of OUR ability. Take it OR leave it, what more can I say? I have references, all happy, that is what matters. Brian oakley |
| Carlos lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5390.html Posted At 12:21:01 07/06/2001 To all of you guys :This is what make this inquire board so good, we can learn from here and hope that make us better. Carlos Lahitte. |
| Walter Hudson |
Misinterpreted Brian!
5412.html Posted At 16:01:10 07/06/2001 Brian, Sorry I havn't read to every single post here. I really meant replacing the specimen when the right conditions were met as arranged before shipping. Like in Carlos' situation, no one has received the package personally so If i'm in the buyer's place, I would take FULL responsibility! I fully understand the RECEIVER'S OBLIGATION not merely of the Seller. This thread has gone too long. Im just glad that not all businessman/herpers are like Mercer who handles problems HOT-HEADEDLY(2 posts proves this). I'm sure that he has been a customer before and I WISH HE GIVES CUSTOMER SERVICE THE SAME LEVEL AS HOW HE WANTS TO RECEIVE THEM. ......next time please talk to your customers peronally(phone) as I am **99%** sure that things will be settled out without any problem. Emails and letters often misleads the reader. "The Disgusting, Childish, Dishonest, Immature"(by DonMercer) Walter Hudson |
| Jordan Russell |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5418.html Posted At 16:34:15 07/06/2001 The sad thing is that ALL of this could have been avoided if the animals had been shipped properly through Delta or a comparable airline. There probably wouldn't have been any dead animals, Carlos would have had to pick the animals up on time and there would have been no two ways about it, ALSO IF they had died there would have been a reimbursement in order for Carlos. What I don't understand is how you both totally argued in behalf of the arguement I have made for MONTHS and still many people don't understand or care to ship animals properly. As Brian even said Airborne doesn't ship live animals. I personally think you both asked for it and the animals paid your consquences. |
| Ken Harbart |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5427.html Posted At 21:26:15 07/06/2001 Just a clarification- Delta does not guarantee live arrival, per se. They will reimburse for the insured value of the shipment, provided that an act or omission on their part caused the DOA. Myself and another venomous keeper in another part of the country were unfortunate enough to both find this out firsthand. Luckily for him, Delta was quick to deny his claim and the shipper made restitution to him. In my case, Delta's performance has been so utterly pathetic that it can not even be called lackluster. I won't even get into the runaround they gave me prior to telling me (via phone) the claim was denied. Fter telling me the claim was denied, they never sent a letter stating anything to that effect, and now say they have no record whatsoever of my claim. As a result, I find myself having to wrestle a refund from the shipper (its now been a full six months), with no evidence of my claim to Delta ever being denied. My apologies for the tangent, but I had to vent- the whole situation is frustrating me to no end- even moreso that the seller apparently now has a different email account, and I have lost contact with him. |
| Brian Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5428.html Posted At 21:55:26 07/06/2001 I stand corrected Ken. So if the carrier will not guarantee live arrival how can we as the shipper. Just a question/thought. B Oakley |
| Jason Thurber |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5431.html Posted At 23:11:59 07/06/2001 That is one of the risks of a seller, in my opinion. It was said before. Anytime you are offering an animal, product, service, or whatever, it is your job to see that it gets done right or gets there in one peice. What if you purchased an icebox from sears, it had to come in from the warehouse, it got there damaged, and the manager said, "sorry, we're not responsible for the shippers mistake" and kept your money? Would your philosophy on business be the same? Why should people in the business of selling animals be any less professional? I don't know. I don't agree with the contractor/sub-contractor bit either. If "you" are contracted to do a job, and you deside to get lazy and contract somebody else to do the work for you, then you are responsible for the actions of the people "you" employ, whether they agree to pay for the damage or not. I am having my home remodeled right now, so I am currently dealing with this issue. It seams like alot of people have no accountability. I don't appreciate the consept of the "middle man", unless it is absolutely nessasary. I think that attitude is a burden. |
| Walter Hudson |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5432.html Posted At 23:12:34 07/06/2001 I would suggest that you emphasize to all customers then(ifever) that you WILL NOT guarantee live arrival(BEFORE closing the transaction). The buyer then assumes all risk and responsibility if the transaction goes on! |
| Rich Zuchowski |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5438.html Posted At 00:25:45 07/07/2001 Basically you have to do what I did with my Airborne Express shipments. I went into the herp insurance business. I charge more than it costs for my shipments to provide the padding necessary to replace the animals that someday will die in transit. I could see no other viable alternative considering the options open to me. Yes, I have lost business to other people charging less for shipping, and although many will certainly stand behind a live arrival guarantee, many others are probably untested in this department. It will only take one incident of someone losing a $500 shipment that they have to replace out of their own pocket to make them reevaluate the situation. To refute another statement, Airborne Express certainly does take live animal shipments. I mark the box with LIVE CARGO labels and mark the airbill as such. The only fatality I have had with them was a few years ago when they delivered a package to the wrong address and it sat on a porch, in the sun, in mid August. If the recipient requests airport to airport service, I use USAir for that, since Delta has become a user hostile service in the recent past and I will only give them my business if there is absolutely no other alternative. So for those people on the receiving end of shipments, sure you can price shop and try to get the most mileage for your dollar, but when things go sour because you went for the rock bottom price and that was all that mattered, you may have no one to turn to that is at all sympathetic. We would ALL love to be able to get our animals to you for pennies and rest assured that they were going to arrive in perfect health and exactly when they were supposed to show up. The cheaper you try to get this ideal situation for, the less likely it is to happen in the real world. |
| Andrew Potts |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5454.html Posted At 19:47:17 07/07/2001 Hello, For those who make excuses on why they shouldn't be held responsible when a problems occur with animals they've shipped, give it a rest. My advise dont sell live animals over the net. As you, the shipper, who's asking people to give you money for a given product, the burden of responsibility falls squarely on your shoulders.I will be the 1st to admit that it's fustrating when problems do occur. But invariably they do, it's just a matter of odds and the fact you have no control after it leaves your hands. Now if your good this wont happen very often and if it does you do the right thing, make the customer happy. You can make all the excuses you want but it's up to you make things right. Like i said if your good problems of any kind will be far and few between, so you just learn from it and make the customer happy. Well at least thats what is expected of sellers of products in all other comodity markets. Caio. |
| Karen Clegg |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5455.html Posted At 20:13:17 07/07/2001 Carlos, For one thing, you seem to be blaming Don for shipping the animals Airborne knowing that they do not ship live animals, but you seem to forget that you were part of the decision to ship the animals Airborne, and by being part of that decision that makes you responsible also. By agreeing to have the snakes shipped Airborne and knowing their policies you set yourself up for a possible loss, just my opinion. So stop putting the blame soley on Don. And lastly, who are YOU to say that Don is NOT a professional breeder?? Obviously if he can make a living off of it as you stated in one of your earlier posts then he must be doing something right. Good luck!! |
| Carlos Lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5462.html Posted At 23:54:15 07/07/2001 Karen, if Don Mercer is a professional, I'm out of this hobby. I don't know about the no guarantee in live animals until I contact Airborne Express, You have to be one of his puppets, right? |
| Karen Clegg |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5463.html Posted At 00:35:17 07/08/2001 Carlos, One of Don's PUPPETS???? Get over it Carlos... You should't agree to ship via anything unless you know the FACTS!!! Just because I agree with Don, that makes me someone that he knows? For all anyone knows the snakes could still be alive. Have you even provided proof that the snakes did infact die? Did you send Don a picture of the dead snakes? Did you freeze the snakes and send them back to Don? The only thing you mention in all your threads is how much you are a victim in all of this.... hmmm..... |
| Carlos Lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5464.html Posted At 00:58:00 07/08/2001 Karen, do you think i expend more money in this garbage, Send me the money for the shipping and I will ship the 3 dead snakes back in the same box and the same containers. Is not your opinion what make me think you are a puppet, but from the beginning of this thread you call "Case Close in Don favor" that is your opinion, I can have my opinion too. |
| Karen Clegg |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5466.html Posted At 01:51:37 07/08/2001 Carlos, Why don't you take pictures of the dead snakes, and mail them to Don Mercer. I am not the only one that took Mr. Mercer's side in this matter. Point being that you should have been there to recieve the snakes. But that point has already been brought up by many people. Now since you are STILL making such a big deal about this then pictures would be a great thing for you to have of the snakes, but if you want to keep making excuses as to why you don't have pictures of them then that looks a little suspicious. Good Luck! |
| Brian Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5469.html Posted At 09:54:43 07/08/2001 I was not going to bring it up! PICTURES, PICTURES, PICTURES I MAY be mistaken, but I do not know of a seller that would replace anything just on the word of someone 3000 miles away saying they are dead. Requests for pics have been made, but have not seen any yet. Carlos, you told me in an email that you had pics that you were going to show all these different agencies. Send them to ME! I will even pay for them to get here. Just a little something for you to think about......I have gone to a COUPLE of websites to see what other shippers terms are. One in particular, Carlos, says that they are not responsible if there is nobody there to accept delivery and the box is left on the step. I know, I know, they must not be a professional if they would have such polocies typed right on their website right? CAREFUL! Brian oakley |
| Walter Hudson |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5474.html Posted At 12:31:51 07/08/2001 Calos, Please let us put and end to this thread and admit your fault. I had some comments for you and Mercer a few days ago and you know I'm not taking sides. First of all, to be fair with Don, even if the snakes really are dead, consider the fact that you have NOT SIGNED for the package. Just put yourself in the shipper's shoes. If you shipped your snake to a buyer, would you feel good if he/she was not there and the poor animal was left outside under the heat of the SUMMER? Think straight pal! I have dealt with bigger merchants and they always emphasized that they only guarantee live arrival under certain weather conditions and if the package was received WITH SIGNATURE. The only liability of Don in this post are his words. He could have handled it better. Financially, I think you should take the burden of paying for the loss. Besides, you have told us before that you're not gonna pursue this anymore...for the sake of the hobby. BTW, the picture thing might not give you a 100% moneyback but could earn you a discount on your next purchase so do send it to Mercer and TALK TO HIM ON THE PHONE. Be humble enough on your words and it might take you miles. Wish you the best, Walter |
| Rich Zuchowski |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5476.html Posted At 13:14:30 07/08/2001 Just a side comment here, since I am hearing a lot of people stating that a signature should be required. I fill out my Airborne Express paperwork via an online program they sent me a while back. I have looked VERY HARD at that program, and to the best of my knowledge there is NO place to even specify on the airbill that a signature be required from the recipient. So, in some instances, this is not even an option. |
| Carlos Lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5477.html Posted At 13:36:54 07/08/2001 Like I say before, I want to end this. 3 of you, any ones that can be fair. e-mail me your address and i will send 1 container with the dead snake inside to each one. |
| Brian Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5478.html Posted At 13:54:02 07/08/2001 Why not just send me the pics Carlos? You were not there to accept delivery. You were told they would be there by noon. You told me that yourself. So, since we agree on that........get over it. Put it behind you, for YOUR sake. You will be happier that way. YOU were not there and you knew that they would be there on that day by 12 noon. Like I stated in my previous post, there are other breeders that say the EXACT same thing on their sites......not responsible! B Oakley |
| carlos Lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5479.html Posted At 13:57:45 07/08/2001 Brian. e-mail me your address.And get this over. |
| Brian Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5481.html Posted At 14:14:35 07/08/2001 Carlos, I have speant MANY days on this fiasco. PLEASE answer the following questions since you keep ignoring them in the past. 1. What did the snakes feel like when you touched them the day they arrived? 2. What about other people who say RIGHT ON THEIR WEBSITE that they are not responsible if the person is not there and the box is left on the porch? Does that make them un professional? 3. I do not want a dead snake shipped to my house, can you not provide the pics you told me in your email that you had? B Oakley |
| carlos Lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5482.html Posted At 14:23:44 07/08/2001 Brian, Do you check Don Mercer web page. Check and them Talk. The pictures are instant pictures. Do you want them or not? This is why I ask you for your address. |
| Brian Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5483.html Posted At 14:38:16 07/08/2001 Carlos, you STILL have not answered my questions. First of all I said "OTHER PEOPLE.............are they unprofessional" Answer the questions Carlos. I do not need to see Don's webpage. I AND everyone else if quite aware of his terms now. if you have the pics avialble right now, then email to me. Brian |
| Walter Hudson |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5484.html Posted At 14:55:35 07/08/2001 If shipper says by 12 noon, it means anytime in the morning but guaranteed to arrive ON OR BEFORE 12. Carlos, please answer mr. Oakley's question. We have already given this post enough words and time. Even if you didnt sign, YOU fully ADMITTED that you were not there or anyone else to receive the package personally. |
| Carlos Lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5487.html Posted At 15:10:49 07/08/2001 Brian. Any one who use improper box without insulation to ship to Miami in the summer is not unprofessional is a criminal.and in top of that with out the rigth holes ( When you make a cut in the plastic the cut close back ). I ask some of you guys if you want the continers and as of today no one of you say YES.I think you want for me to go all they way.Rigth? I tell you long time ago to droped . Do you want start the battle again , them les do that this time with every body involved and let see who is right or wrong. |
| Brian Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5488.html Posted At 15:17:14 07/08/2001 Carlos, there is no battle. I am just tryuing to put all the pieces together. I have hearfd over and over again about the damn holes. IT MAKES NOOOOOO DIFFERENCE. The fact is that a hole WAS made and the DID NOT close up enough for them to die. I have said and MANY others have agreed WITH ME that they would not die from suffication. As far as the temp in Miami in the summer and not packing them right...........MAYBE next time someone asks you what THE TEMPERATURE is you will answer it with a number, not "it is not too hot and it is cloudy"! You have a problem with answering questions Carlos. You STILL have not answered mine. When Don asked what the temp. was, that would deserve a response of a number given. NOT what you said in return. LAST TIME I WILL ASK THIS, will you answer the simple questions I have listed above. Do not beat around the bush, just answer the damn things! Brian |
| Carlos Lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5489.html Posted At 15:37:42 07/08/2001 Brian, If I work for the wheather institute I can be more exact in my predictions for the wheather, but in here today can be cloud and tomorrow can be 90+ degrees. Sorry i can help you on that. Do you work for the Public Defender Department? Look like. |
| Webmaster |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5490.html Posted At 15:40:56 07/08/2001 OK, it's time to close this thread off. Everyone is just repeating the same things over and over again. If anyone has something to say specifically to someone else, do it via email and without the benefit of an audience. You all can do this voluntarily or I can disable the reply button. I will assume anyone that makes a post that does not add something new to the discussion is requesting me to close this thread. So before ANYONE makes a new post here, reread all of the old message to make sure you are covering new ground. Any NEW thread opened to continue the flame war will be deleted as quickly as I see it. |
| Brian Oakley |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5491.html Posted At 15:43:38 07/08/2001 I will respect your wishes Rich, it is your site. I do feel that I have questions that should be answered though. Carlos, please email me your responses to the questions I have asked. I am done Rich! Thank you for leaving this one up though. I did not think you would let it go this far. B Oakley |
| carlos Lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5492.html Posted At 15:45:31 07/08/2001 Rick, Thank you. |
| Carlos lahitte |
Re: Don Mercer (Very bad guy)
5617.html Posted At 13:41:51 07/10/2001 Guys, If you are following this thread , this is not the end Read the one above MORE FUEL FOR THE FIRE, from DON MERCER. |