Hi waterfowlrescue! I'm glad you've joined us.
I am sorry if I came off as offensive. I think you guys are great and the work you are doing is great, and everyone was very kind and someone did offer us water when I mentioned how thirsty my children were, so it was not fair to imply that they didn't care about us, and I'm sorry about that. In trying to be funny, I sometimes miss the mark.
By the same token, it was indeed a 2 1/2 hour wait--my husband and I both work from home and I was keeping him updated on our expected return time, so I was paying attention and was there from a little before ten to a little after 12:30.
My understanding is that the person who was scheduled to meet me got caught up on a swan delivery that took longer than she was expecting. The other folks there didn't know which goose we were there for. When the original person arrived, she wanted to change the goose's bandage and that took a really long time. I am not criticizing her for having her priorities straight--she was right to ensure the swans got delivered, and right to ensure that our goose came home only after a thorough health inspection and clean bandage. I'm just saying that this is what happened in my particular case.
And I know how hard volunteers work. I've been there. It's obvious that they care very much about the animals--the facility was clean and organized, and the animals were clean and healthy. With all the time and heart and sweat you and others put into the organization, it's irritating when someone implies you've messed up. You need recognition, because heaven knows you see enough heartache in a rescue to not need it from me.
Mistakes happen. I'm willing to believe that our morning's experience was a random and rare mistake. And I already believe that your work is wonderful and I'm grateful people like you are willing to devote so much to it. Thank you.
Oh, and I'm glad you've joined us here on this board too--people are often posting about rescue situations, and it will be wonderful to have your expertise available. Thank you for that too.