Bit of Advice Please?

[Pygmypuff]

Hey there!

I've recently started at college doing a course in animal care, and however much I love to actually be with the hamsters and mice etc, I just can't bare it anymore.

I won't go into detail, but basically the accommodation is dirty, smelly, unclean and wayyy too small. Unsafe bedding, substrate, toys and wheels are being used, and many of the animals are showing stressed behaviour.

What should I do? I can't take it, watching animals live like that, but I know if I try to help it'll be kicked down because I'm much younger than most of the students and teachers there. Besides which, it seems rude and cheeky to point out the faults of several so-called animal experts, and I definitely don't want to make enemies.

Should I drop the course and home educate myself? I've wanted to do this for years and years and now finally seems like the right time. I've got an interview for a job coming up and I'm also thinking of setting up a small animal rescue. Should I go for it and "dive into the deep end"?

Thanks in advance for any replies!

[Thin Lizzy]

This has really affected you and I do think you should say something.
If it was me, I'd have to say something because like you I wouldn't be able to focus on the course.
These people might be animal experts but, are probably not up to date with changes.
Make a list of what's bothering you and ask to speak to them.
You could ask the other students what they make of the living conditions these animals are in. You'll probably find you're not the only one concerned and like yourself don't want to offend anyone.
These experts should be able to listen to your concerns and not take offence.
Don't be afraid to voice your opinion Pygmypuff, keeping quiet will only niggle away at you.

[Pygmypuff]

Originally Posted by Thin Lizzy

This has really affected you and I do think you should say something.
If it was me, I'd have to say something because like you I wouldn't be able to focus on the course.
These people might be animal experts but, are probably not up to date with changes.
Make a list of what's bothering you and ask to speak to them.
You could ask the other students what they make of the living conditions these animals are in. You'll probably find you're not the only one concerned and like yourself don't want to offend anyone.
These experts should be able to listen to your concerns and not take offence.
Don't be afraid to voice your opinion Pygmypuff, keeping quiet will only niggle away at you.

Thank you Thin Lizzy, I think I really needed to hear that. I will let them know!

[badwolf]

I would definitely say something if it's affecting you that much. I do find it hard to keep my mouth shut when I'm upset/**** off lol, so I may not be the best person to advise you on what to say :P Animal matters get me incredibly heated up! I'd probs end up stealing them all.

[Figaro]

I'm curious to know how this turned out. Not sure what I would've done in the same situation as I don't know all the details. If they're teaching a course in animal care but aren't treating the animals properly, something went wrong with that course.