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TODD MARCUS BIRDS EXOTIC - PSITTACOSIS

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luvmybirds2

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Aug 27, 2004, 12:21:14 PM8/27/04
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I was recently searching for a website for Bird Paradise and came across a
couple of comments regarding signs which were posted at Todd Marcus Birds
Exotic about Bird Paradise. I feel the need to come to the defense of Bird
Paradise. Bird Paradise is a beautiful store; their birds are extremely
healthy and the store is spotless. The employees there are extremely
helpful and know a lot about birds. I was sickened by the attitude of the
employees at Birds Exotic. It seemed to me that they were trying to make
the general public think that the birds at Bird Paradise were sick. They
are anything but. Bird Paradise has their birds on a really good diet and
you can tell they spend a lot of money on nutrition. The feathers of the
birds at Bird Paradise are shiny and they are all happy, healthy and well
adjusted. It looks like this Birds Exotic place only cares about money and
is trying to make the other store look bad. They have signs in their
windows about Bird Paradise and an article about Psittacosis next to it
that gives you the impression the store is infected. I think it is a
really low tactic by Todd Marcus Birds Exotic. I will NEVER shop at Birds
Exotic again. ISN'T IT ALL ABOUT THE BIRDS? Obviously not at some stores.
Thank you for allowing me to vent. - JC

Jesse Hand

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Aug 28, 2004, 8:31:51 AM8/28/04
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I have always found the staff at Birds Exotic to be the most friendly and
helpful. Especially Todd when he is there. In fact he has always provided my
wife and I with tremendous help when we asked our "stupid" questions.

I can't blame Birds Exotic for posting those notices on their doors. Even
Shultz's Bird Farm in Langhorne, PA posted a notice about it. I doubt it is
money motivated, they just want to make sure their birds are safe.

Wouldn't you?

--
-Jesse

http://www.jessehand.net

Disclaimer: Spelling & grammar errors are made on purpose for those who are
fulfilled by correcting others.


"luvmybirds2" <luvmy...@nospam.yahoo.com> wrote in message
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luvmybirds2

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Aug 30, 2004, 10:56:23 AM8/30/04
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Actually, I think that, if Mr. Marcus called the Health Department, he
would have found out that there was no disease at Bird Paradise and the
birds there are extremely healthy. I don't doubt that he did that; I think
he used it to generate more business for himself. That's what I did. I
called and the Health Department said all of the birds tested negative. To
each, his own. I'm all about the birds; I would think there would have
been more compassion there if there was even the possibility of something.
And, if he was so worried about his birds, why would he take in previously
owned birds FOR PROFIT to re-sell without first testing them? I think it
is a money issue here. We are all entitled to our opinions. I will drive a
little further to shop at Bird Paradise. They test all of their birds
before they even enter their store. Like you said in one of your posts
"why does he still have the signs up -($$$$ maybe?)" Cheers - Joan

Grainne Gillespie

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Sep 8, 2004, 4:17:50 PM9/8/04
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Bird Paradise should have their lawyer send a nice "cease and desist" letter
to Birds Exotic


crazyaboutparrots

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Sep 30, 2004, 10:22:51 PM9/30/04
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I have been to all three places and even worked in one of the three. I have
friends that work at a major animal hospital and there is definitely one
of the three that has a bad reputation. I own two parrots and bought each
one at different stores of the three stores mentioned. Personally, they
all are Pet Shops and with each pet shop you may see something that may
seem alarming. I have seen mucous coming out of the nose of a lilac
crowned amazon at one of the three, not saying which one and when I made a
note about it I was told "It is normal". I have seen bugs in the food at
one of the stores. Also one of the stores when you walk in, there is never
anyone out front to watch and with each store having thefts of the
parrots, you would think they would be more cautious. I refuse to go in
one of the three due to bad experiences but I will not rat them out.

Also I have been to one of the stores and they are there to help. Another
one, you can tell the employees have a major passion for the parrots they
have and will not be the ones to tell you a cockatoo is a great parrot for
anyone or see dollar signs when someone thinks the rose breasted cockatoo
is pretty but doesn't have a clue about them.

I really do not know if the accusations against Birds Paradise were
warranted, but regardless each store has strong points and weak ones.

I just think you should take all the precautions when buying a feathered
friend or supplies for them.

birdcrazy

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Sep 30, 2004, 10:49:30 PM9/30/04
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Just to let all of you who the Todd Marcus Birds Exotic has false
information posted. You are wrong. Birds Paradise was sut down by the
Dept. of Health because of their birds being sick.There is a man who
bought a cockatoo there and they sent him home with antibiotics and the
bird.He to it to his vet and the vet even told him of the dept of health
shutting Birds Paradise down.The man is very upset. Plus, I have dealt
with Todd and all his staff and the are great. I have a bird from them and
my vet has seen many of his birds and never has had any of them sick. Lab
result were fine. If you want proof of this man and his sick cockatoo go
to nj.com- search forum or search for posting #2065 -question for all
parrot by popoff1. it is dated 9-30-04.I will never deal with the man who
owns bird paradise he was shut down before, maybe after you read this post
on nj.com you will understand why Schultz's in Langhorne, Pa and Todd's
made the posting of signs at their store. They care about there customer
and their birds.One last thing, Todd and his staff will help you any way
possible.He does not do it for just the money and he has been in the
business for a long time.So, go to nj.com and read the proof for yourself.

birdcrazy

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Sep 30, 2004, 11:27:03 PM9/30/04
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One more thing regarding Bird Paradise. There was a small article posted in
the new jersey paper stating is was close down by the Dept of Health
because of sick birds.If you want to see that too as proof it is on the
website.Todd deals with breeders who care about there birds.

SamSez

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Oct 1, 2004, 10:25:26 AM10/1/04
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"birdcrazy" <User6...@aol.com> wrote in message
news:63b289f409c51554...@localhost.talkaboutpets.com...

Please provide links. Otherwise, you are just spreading fud. He said, she
said, her vet said, etc. Please provide a link to a news story from a news
organization and not links more he-said/she-said forums [containing your same
posts].

[And, for what it's worth, the way I heard the story (equally unsubstantiated)
is that Bird Paradise suspected they had a problem, shut themselves down while
they had extensive testing done, and that testing showed there was no problem --
and my links to that story are as good as yours (so far anyway).]


luvmybirds2

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Oct 6, 2004, 2:27:08 PM10/6/04
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Funny - I saw the article you are talking about at the Cinnaminson store
and it does not say anything about Bird Paradise. I think Bird Paradise
got a real bum rap. And that jerk in Cinnaminson keeps on putting signs up
about Bird Paradise. (gee, I wonder why?) I don't think he is a
professional business man. He obviously wants to make Bird Paradise look
bad so he can make more money. I was at Bird Paradise over the weekend. I
see that Dr. Pepperberg is going to be speaking there on October 23rd. I
am definitely going. I love the store. And you are right. The health
department said there was NO problem there. I support them. They care
about the birds and it's not all about money with them. - JC

luvmybirds2

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Oct 6, 2004, 2:28:45 PM10/6/04
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can you tell me where I can find this article that says Bird Paradise had
anything? I was unable to find anything other than a generic article
stating that there was a problem in Burlington County. When you call the
health department, they said it was not linked to Bird Paradise. So where
is this article you are talking about?

luvmybirds2

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Oct 6, 2004, 2:36:44 PM10/6/04
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So, finish your story. Was his bird sick? Obviously not. don't see any
postings. You people are vicious.

zbcd

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Oct 6, 2004, 6:27:53 PM10/6/04
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I guess every body has a opinion about every thing. And there are 3 sides
to every story.
1 Fact to post a sign with the statements that are made in a place of
business with out facts would be slander witch the store vet also has a
letter on the front door telling Birds Exotic to post a sign that requires
a health certificate.
2 Fact the store the sign talks had all its birds quarantined by the state
for 45 days
3 fact that store made the decision to keep there birds at that location,
so they had to close down to the public for a two week time period to
protect the public from any possible exposures
4 Fact this is the second time that the owner of this store has been shut
down in less than 1 year for psittacosis.
5Fact Birds Exotic is only protecting their birds and their customers from
birds that are still testing positive with psittacosis that have not been
to a vet.


Deputy Dog

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Oct 6, 2004, 6:53:00 PM10/6/04
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Prove it! Until you can provide sources that will verify your "facts" it's
all bullshit.

Dave

"zbcd" <pri...@nospam.aol.com> wrote in message
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SamSez

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Oct 6, 2004, 8:04:16 PM10/6/04
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"zbcd" <pri...@nospam.aol.com> wrote in message
news:afab25f86fbf6cc1...@localhost.talkaboutpets.com...

Uh, they ain't 'facts' just because you say so.

Post a link to a public source -- a newspaper, a health agency, whatever -- just
one link to something other than more of your same unsubstantiated ramblings
that indicates your so called 'facts' are even remotely true.

No link, no truth. Period.


greg1448

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Oct 6, 2004, 8:30:43 PM10/6/04
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I don't mean to but in but I feel there is an attempt to discredit Todd
Marcus and Birds Exotic going on here. I have been to both stores and am
concerned deeply by this topic. luvmybirds2 has so much negitivity towards
Birds Exotic why? I am a bird owner and bird lover and am concerned. I
feel there is a cover up going on and why? I love birds, and any of those
that truely do would want to make sure Psittacosis doesn't spread. Truth
is I have seen evidence of Jack Lance tearing down the sign caught on
video. There are only so many of us loyal customers and word does get
around. luvmybirds2 walk away and remember its not about past issues but
its about the birds. Your verbage here sounds familiar I hope this is not
some kind of payback attempt on Birds Exotic. I will not spend my hard
earned money where Birds are not the focus. Hey I could be wrong, and hope
so, I would hate to think all this was personal.

luvmybirds2

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Oct 7, 2004, 2:42:39 PM10/7/04
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Personal? Yes, perhaps it has become personal. I purchased two birds from
Bird Paradise. Both are beautiful, healthy birds... no problems at all. I
stumbled across this forum while performing a search for the Bird Paradise
website. When I read the posts here, I was astonished at the obvious
slander which has been broadcast by Marcus. You are obviously either an
owner or employee of Marcus since you seem to be privy to information
relating to customers he obviously pissed off. Doesn't surprise me the way
he peddles birds like drugs. No, I didn't purchase a bird from him, nor
would I, especially not now. Interesting, if you are not an employee, how
would you have "evidence" of Jack Lance tearing down signs? Poor man was
probably defending his reputation and tearing down the slanderous signs
hung by Marcus. I would do the same thing (that is, if that is even true.
Who knows with the way you people seem to like to gossip). I think I have
a perfect solution to this entire exchange of emails - you Marcus groopies
continue to shop there. Everyone else - don't believe what you read. Bird
Paradise is a beautiful store and it speaks for itself. Maybe that's why
Marcus feels the need to slander him. He can't hold a candle to that
store. And isn't it funny that most of his employees are working at Bird
Paradise? Wow. Now THAT says something right there. He has a great crew
there. To Jack Lance and the others at Bird Paradise: you have a fabulous
store. I love to watch all of you interact with your babies and the love
and care you give your birds. And all of you have a ton of knowledge about
birds! You have taught me a lot. Best of luck to you. I feel sorry for you
and I have to say, your are all professional, upstanding people who
obviously love birds. Eventually, these people will see the writing on the
wall and what it is all about. - Joan

greg1448

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Oct 8, 2004, 12:28:30 AM10/8/04
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Wow luvmybirds2 it is personal for you. I feel pitty you are so consumed
by this. Truth has no meaning for I believe you will not change you mind
if the health department re-posted the notice on your forhead. Truth is I
am not Todd Marcus nor an employee or former employee. I regret this may
cause you more sleepless nights. Truth; I respect Todd as a great
business man. I am jealous of his success and judging by your additude you
are also. Please keep on pleading your case you are your own best critic.
I encourage all whom wish to know the truth to talk with Todd themselves,
he really does care about the birds he sells. Let all be the judge for
themselves. luvmybirds2 I wish you luck in finding a way to let go. I for
one will trust Todd Marcus for future purchases.

SamSez

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Oct 8, 2004, 8:56:18 AM10/8/04
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"greg1448" <greg...@msn.com> wrote in message
news:d381cf90a6682497...@localhost.talkaboutpets.com...

Still no link to factual information. Therefore, pure FUD.

AVIANADDICT

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Oct 8, 2004, 11:24:20 AM10/8/04
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PEOPLE! WHAT ARE YOU DOING? Geez. I spent last evening reading the posts on
this topic. What a mind spinner! Are we bird lovers here? Maybe I can help
put everyone's mind at ease. I will refer you to Bird Talk Magazine -
November, 2004 issue, which addresses Psittacosis, and I quote "For some
reason, there is a stigma associated with this disease, and it tends to
evoke strong responses in certain people. While it is a zoonotic disease,
meaning one that is contagious from a bird to a human, it is a bacterial
infection, no more, no less. EXCELLENT AVICULTURISTS, PET RETAILERS,
BREEDERS AND OWNERS HAVE ALL EXPERIENCED PSITTACOSIS FROM TIME TO TIME,
AND IT DOES NOT MEAN THAT THEY MAINTAIN THEIR BIRDS IN DIRTY, UNSANITARY
OR UNHYGIENIC CONDITIONS." It goes on to say that pigeons carry the
bacteria and, since most aviaries in Florida are outdoors, Psitticine
birds would be exposed. I feel bad for anyone who is thinking about
purchasing a bird who comes across this forum. You people are making this
out to be tantamount to New Castle's Disease. This disease is associated
with birds everywhere. It is not an epidemic (although I would get that
impression after reading some of these posts). It is easily treated. If
you check a census for the number of people who have contracted
Psittacosis from a bird, you will see that it is close to zero. Is this a
forum designed to trash businesses or talk about birds? Shame on the
webmaster of this site for not having put a stop to all this mudslinging.
Birds get sick just like humans. That is why there are Avian
veterinarians. That a shop owner may have been misfortunate enough to have
received a bird with Psittacosis or been somehow exposed is not a reason
to trash that shop or its owner. If there was an exposure, it looks as
though Bird Paradise took the necessary precautions to avoid any of their
birds becoming ill. I truly doubt any shop owner can post a notice that
they have NEVER been afflicted with any type of avian disease, whether it
be Psittacosis, Aspergillus, Polyomavirus, PDD or some other type of
bacteria. It happens. Give these poor people a break! And shame on the
Webmaster of this forum for not having jumped in and put a stop to this.

Wingnut

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Oct 8, 2004, 7:57:49 PM10/8/04
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"AVIANADDICT" <pri...@private.com> wrote in message
news:8f590034772a21de...@localhost.talkaboutpets.com...

Nice post, but FYI, this is an unmoderated group.


birdfanatic

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Oct 10, 2004, 10:23:09 PM10/10/04
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I have read through these posts, and I must say that many of them wreak of
obvious personal gripes. I have purchased six birds from Todd Marcus
Birds Exotic over the past few years, all of which are extremely happy and
healthy birds. I was given an abundance of information about my new
feathered friends before taking them home, and that support network has
continued. While I have been disenchanted with a few former employees, I
am happy to say that Mr. Marcus recognized the lack of knowledge and
professionalism and has since supplemented his staff with caring and
experienced personnel. I believe some of his former employee's may be
those previously referenced, who later sought employment by Mr. Lance.

This of course is just my opinion, but I have visited Bird Paradise and
was less than impressed. I will acknowledge the fact that their store is
larger in square footage, but I feel that Birds Exotic has a far better
selection of foods, toys and cages, with a quality that is unsurpassed.
Birds Exotic has steadily built a reputation of quality, over 27
consecutive years....now that is EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS.

As for Mr. Lance ripping down signs that supposedly slandered him - that
just seems to drip of guilt, doesn't it? One would think that if he was
the super-intelligent, professional and honest business man that is
boasted about in some posts, that he would maintain some modicum of
professionalism and not run rampant into the competition and make a fool
of himself. If he is in fact being slandered, shouldn't he let a lawyer
handle this, instead of acting out like a 5 year old who had his Tonka
truck taken?

To those who don't prefer Birds Exotic or the owner Todd Marcus, then
kudos to you for finding a store that seems to work for you. But
seriously, grow up and move on. Some people respect Birds Exotic, the
owner and it's employees, and no amount of internet shrine to Jack Lance
will alter those opinions.

I suppose we owe a certain gratitude to those whose lives are so pathetic
and unfullfilling, for where would we derive so many moments of amusement
were it not for the ignorant ramblings of others?

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