Originally Posted by GRB

Whilst I agree that some of the comments I made were less than proffessional, I noticed that there is not any infraction for posting a thread that clearly displays animal mistreatment.

I am not trying to pick a fight here with you, as I agree we were perhaps going a little too far, and you have to do your job here as moderator.

However, I can't help wondering how much of the statements made you might agree with as a fellow keeper - and to how much the forum should be allowed to persue such veiwpoints, being a forum designed to further the knowledge and welfare of exotic animals and their needs. I think you would agree that none of the comments were deliberately personal attacks without mentioning the status of the animal in question.

Whilst the rules are set to stop bullying and trolls, I have to say that when it comes to perceived* animal welfare, I think people should be entitled to voice their opinions. Why should this member be lulled into thinking what she has been doing is acceptable? If it were another animal, such as a dog, there are laws to govern this behaviour. Alas, exotic pets seem to be left out of such matters largely (by hat I mean the laws are often insufficient to cover their specific needs) - sometimes a few harsh but true words on a forum can be the only "law" to protect such animals.

*Obviously, percieved can differ from actual, but here I can be relatively sure circumstances are not ideal.