Just a reminder for everyone ...

[CagneyDog]

I apologize if you feel this should not be posted Karen...just let me know and I'll delete it.

However, I think I reminder needs to be made to a few people in regards to posting: It's quality not quantity.

Posting up to 90 times a day is usually not neccesary and is typically just an attempt to rack up posts. I think it's awesome that these people enjoy Pet Talk, however would it be possible to just tone it down a bit? Posting so many times with less than a sentence is not needed.

And another small thing, Try not to use 6-7 smilies in one post. It just makes it confusing to read.

These people are great contributors to Pet talk, however others are getting fairly frustrated by the accesive posting, so I just figured that this thread could serve as a reminder to those that are doing this. :)

[slick]

Posting up to 90 times a day
I totally agree. What really bothers me is when they create 90 new threads all about the same subject. Sheesh....one thread with do with updates added. Maybe this should be in the Pet Peeve thread?

[Sevaede]

I agree. Maybe a PM directly to some of the folks that you are referring to could help curb the problem?

[CagneyDog]

Yes, maybe this should be in the peeve thread. There's one person in mind that has been doing this constantly around the dog section. I've tried pm'ing her and got no answer.

[buckner]

I agree with this. I think constant posting of the same thing, or constant replies that say "yaaahhh" or something is totally stupid. Just my opnion, though. It seems like a waste of space, and only makes you look like your a "post hog".

Then again, this is coming from someone who's been here 2 years with less than 1000 posts. :P If everyone was like me, this wouldn't be a message board. hahaha




PS - Lindsey! Where have you been? You're no longer on AIM, I miss you! *goes to PM you right now*

[gini]

90 posts a day? Who, I ask you, Who has time to do this?

[gemini9961]

I hope said person will read this friendly advice.

[buttercup132]

I totally agree. What really bothers me is when they create 90 new threads all about the same subject. Sheesh....one thread with do with updates added. Maybe this should be in the Pet Peeve thread?Or make pointless threads about stuff(not this one but I alsways see them in dog general)
Thank you for someone finallly saying something, I thought it was jsut me that it bothered. And is it just me or does it seem to be random new people who post stupid things then leave PT forever and dont bother to introduce themselves.

[Almita]

I agree I know someone that posts on that dog general that people are talking about also but not gonna say anything about it but some people just want to post a lot just because they want to get the most posts you can post a lot just as if they are at least a sentence or two. Not like 5 smilies, or yuuuup coool. Thanks for bringing this up.

[animal_rescue]

I definitely agree with this. It can get annoying to see people post will little or few words and like a thousand smilies as well.

[Roxyluvsme13]

^ Agreed to everything above said. I do post alot, (I have no life..:p. Well, just alot of spare time.) but if I can't think of anything to say I normally don't post.

[Flatcoatluver]

I think one of the biggest peeves on this topic is people just posting " I agree" but that's all they type. I don't care if you agree, I want to know what you think, you can quote them and say I agree BUT TYPE MORE THEN THAT. It's a pet peeve scrolling threw all the I agrees.

[BC_MoM]

^ Agreed to everything above said. I do post alot, (I have no life..:p. Well, just alot of spare time.) but if I can't think of anything to say I normally don't post.


But there's a difference. You're not posting pointlessly.

[Roxyluvsme13]

But there's a difference. You're not posting pointlessly.
Exactly. That's what I was trying to say above. :)

[CagneyDog]

But there's a difference. You're not posting pointlessly.


Exactly. I'm mainly talking about the posts that have absolutely no point (and sometimes no relavence either).

That's another one of my peeves too Flatcoatluvr. It's just a small thing, but it really makes a difference when I'm reading a thread that just has two word (I agree) replies!

[caseysmom]

I think this needed to be said and I thank you for saying it...I wholeheartedly agree.

[Sevaede]

Sometimes I am guilty of typing only "I agree." but I usually type a couple of sentences after that. When I *do* only type "I agree." that's because that person that I'm agreeing with said all that I had to say. Heh, sorry. (I promise, I don't do it that often.) :o

[catnapper]

Its summer, and the bored kids fresh out of school are heeerrreeee. Its only going to get worse from here on out.


I think one of the biggest peeves on this topic is people just posting " I agree" but that's all they type. I don't care if you agree, I want to know what you think, you can quote them and say I agree BUT TYPE MORE THEN THAT. It's a pet peeve scrolling threw all the I agrees.
The "I agree" thing drives me nuts! I've seen threads where one person said something and 10 others came and quoted it saying "I agree" - which in itself is just fine, if you say "Sue couldn't have said it better...." and then expounded on why you think she said it so well.

But often it seems like there are little drones that quote and simply say "I agree" to the quote. Don't they have a thought all their own? After 10 "I agree"s you'd think the point was made that the original poster had a good thought; there would be no need to quote the same quote an 11th time.... but people do and it would seem the only reason to quote the same thought again is to raise your own post count.

Are people trying to kiss up to the person they quoted? Because I notice they often quote the same person time and time again. Trust me, quoting someone's post isn't going to give you brownie points - quite conversely its going to annoy people. If you want the respect of certain individuals here, especially if they are strong pillars of this community, that respect will come from posting honest and true replies that actually contain some content and thought.

Now, anyone who wishes to quote my insightful reply may do so ;) :p

[Samantha Puppy]

Its summer, and the bored kids fresh out of school are heeerrreeee. Its only going to get worse from here on out.


The "I agree" thing drives me nuts! I've seen threads where one person said something and 10 others came and quoted it saying "I agree" - which in itself is just fine, if you say "Sue couldn't have said it better...." and then expounded on why you think she said it so well.

But often it seems like there are little drones that quote and simply say "I agree" to the quote. Don't they have a thought all their own? After 10 "I agree"s you'd think the point was made that the original poster had a good thought; there would be no need to quote the same quote an 11th time.... but people do and it would seem the only reason to quote the same thought again is to raise your own post count.

Are people trying to kiss up to the person they quoted? Because I notice they often quote the same person time and time again. Trust me, quoting someone's post isn't going to give you brownie points - quite conversely its going to annoy people. If you want the respect of certain individuals here, especially if they are strong pillars of this community, that respect will come from posting honest and true replies that actually contain some content and thought.

Now, anyone who wishes to quote my insightful reply may do so ;) :p
I agree.

[finn's mom]

I agree for the most part that that would be annoying. Although, I suppose I'm missing or just not noticing one particular person who posts "pointlessly." It's kindof a "lose/lose" situation for some people. On one hand you have obviously many people who are annoyed by people who just post "I agree" or one word posts...but, then on the other hand, you also have MANY people who are hurt or bothered by getting 350 views on their threads, and, only 8 replies. And, the people who are only viewing the threads, say that one of the reasons they don't reply is because they don't really have anything to add, or all they can think of to say is "I agree" or one or two word replies. I'm not at all saying that it's why the particular person that has everyone annoyed is posting "pointlessly." I haven't noticed it, really, I just scroll through a thread and read the posts and post on the thread when I want. But, it's obviously a problem for a lot of people. Again, though, just trying to point out that maybe some people who type "I agree" (not necessarily the person you're all saying posts 90 times a day) are trying to simply avoid viewing a thread and not posting anything. Because we all know that it hurts and bothers a lot of people when that happens, too. Ok, that's my two cents. I'm not disagreeing with you guys, because again, I haven't noticed the problem you're referring to. I'm just trying to give a different perspective. :)

[finn's mom]

I agree.

heee heee, look at that post count go up! you crack me up. ;)

[elizabethann]

Hmmm....Interesting thread. Is this a joke thread or are y'all serious?

Makes one feel a little "frightened" to be replying to one.

:eek:

[anna_66]

Posting up to 90 times a day is usually not necessary
This is really one of the reasons I haven't been posting as much. I just get really tired of it.


I think one of the biggest peeves on this topic is people just posting " I agree" but that's all they type. I don't care if you agree, I want to know what you think, you can quote them and say I agree BUT TYPE MORE THEN THAT. It's a pet peeve scrolling threw all the I agrees.
I agree:p

But seriously...OMG, I couldn't have said it better myself. So many people do this and it gets really annoying after 10 people say it.


Hmmm....Interesting thread. Is this a joke thread or are y'all serious?

Makes one feel a little "frightened" to be replying to one.

:eek:
I think they are serious but don't feel frightened to reply:)

[Daisy and Delilah]

Thanks for starting this thread Lindsey. It needed to be said and you put it very well. I think the people in question know who they are and hopefully, they'll take heed when they see it. This board doesn't need to be cluttered with a ton of useless garbage.

I have another request and I'm sorry if anyone is offended. I'm not trying to hijack either. I humbly request that we are more careful in checking our spelling in our posts. I make mistakes just like other people and for that reason, I have a dictionary at the computer. Sometimes I have trouble reading some posts because I can't decipher what someone is trying to say.

For the most part, we all do pretty well but I think a few of us could do a little better in making sure our words are understandable. Thanks ;)

[Cataholic]

Well, I agree on one hand (about the 90 new posts thingy) but disagree on the "I agree" thingy. There are times that I do type, "well said", or <gasp> "ditto", and move on. I do it because I do agree, and really couldn't say it better. But, I want to post to weigh in on a topic. To read it and not respond just because I can't say something more on a topic doesn't seem right. As for quoting and posting to win over someone else? LOL..not me! I quote to show that the writer of the post I quote is as wonderful as I am! (j/k)

[K9soul]

Well I have to say that some of the issues mentioned here are a major reason why I don't even try to keep up much here anymore. It's hard to enjoy it as much as I used to because the sheer posting numbers are just overwhelming and a lot of it (in my opinion) unnecessary, chatroom-like posts. Some folks are treating this more like a chat room than a message board and I notice it particularly in Dog General and General. Perhaps the people who like to sit and have a constant flow of chat/conversation can make a chat room or at least one "chat" thread to post things such as "I took Fido for a walk today!"

It seems some people are eager to reach pillarhood and get their congrats threads and recognition but what some don't seem to realize is it takes more to be a true pillar in the community than sheer post count.

[Zippy]

I try not to post i agree but i have a few times sorry but i do always tell how cute everones pets are when they post a pic.I use smiles alot i am tring to cut down on that.I only post on discussions that i know i have something to say.i am not in dog general much because i don't have dogs not that i don't love them.I am mostly in pet general or cat general sometimes.

[shais_mom]

and with the 90 posts per person then you can't keep up with ones you want to. Then when the thread is bumped up a week later or so I'm always like - wow where'd that come from b/c it was boggled down by so many other
Fido took a walk threads.

[gini]

I just did a quick check and there is someone who is posting every two minutes.

Are these thoughtful and meaningful replies? Well, not to me at least.

What is the point? I think it spoils it for everyone else when the board is cluttered in such a way.

[luvofallhorses]

I know I say I agree sometimes but what else is there to say if someone says something you agree with?? I am not guilty of saying it all the time, though. ;) and it's not a bad thing to say. Not saying anyone said it was a "bad" thing.
I agree about posting 90 times a day, just to put up your post count. Like you said, Lindsey..it's quality..not quanity. I don't post as often as I used to, though. this is just my 2 cents. and shai's mom I hate when old posts are brought up from a week ago, unless you have an update on that thread..

[shihtzulover850]

Well, I agree on one hand (about the 90 new posts thingy) but disagree on the "I agree" thingy. There are times that I do type, "well said", or <gasp> "ditto", and move on. I do it because I do agree, and really couldn't say it better. But, I want to post to weigh in on a topic. To read it and not respond just because I can't say something more on a topic doesn't seem right. As for quoting and posting to win over someone else? LOL..not me! I quote to show that the writer of the post I quote is as wonderful as I am! (j/k)
true and if the person agrees what more needs to be said? they don't need to repeat the whole thing over again just cause you don't like that they only typed "I agree". there is nothing wrong with that imo. but hey to each his own.

[Lizzie]

It is interesting to read how others see responses. I'm not talking about the silly and annoying stuff, which has happened in other forums I've belonged to and at the same time of year (I must admit I'm glad it's happening more often in the dog forums and less often in cat). I read far, far more often than respond in part because I keep the forum open as a tab on Firefox while I'm at work. I can read threads while I'm on the phone or waiting for an appointment, but I take my time when posting so usually wait until I'm home. However, I'm now socializing feral foster kittens, and find it hard to type then also. I didn't realize that there were posters who felt hurt or frustrated by seeing the number of views and receiving very few responses. I'd rather wait for people who really can help me with the question I posted than receive something I can't use, and if there are a lot of views then I assume I've started an interesting thread - I didn't realize I had a big head. :) Having said that, though, there are the times when you need to post in Cat Memorial, and then it's very supportive to have even the briefest response from lots of people.

The two things that frustrate me are the number of times I see an interesting thread buried by dozens of "picture only" threads, and the fact that Cat Health is rarely visited. I, and others, will post a thread in Cats General in order to move people's attention over to the Health forum when we see a question there that is being ignored. It's usually from a new poster who is trying to do the right thing and doesn't realize they've landed in Siberia.

So, yes, I agree (ooops!), let's encourage more in-depth responses.

[Vela]

Saying "I agree" is fine if you are someone who does it sometimes, or you really have input on a situation, but many many times I see, epseiclaly lately, that people don't even bother to read a thread bofore posting, one person in particular, but it happens often anyway. You can tell by the answers they didn't read it. I also notice one particular person in general posting every couple of minutes nearly every day, if you go look at the post history. It makes the board a mess for everyone else, and most of the time, or at least a LOT of the time, the posts actually say nothing. I work two jobs, I don't reply to every post. I enjoy people's pictures but I don't comment on every one. I try especially to comment on those who are having a hard time or with an ill or passed on pet, I feel it's important to let them know you care, but I don't have time to reply to every post so sometimes I don't reply to many at all because then there seems to cause a problem with people who don't feel like they are getting enough responses and get upset and angry. I personally cannot respond to every post, I know many who can't, so sometimes it causes me not to reply much at all. I do wish people would post thoughtful posts, not just one liners of aww cute, or yeah!, etc. Sometimes it's okay, but not every response just to up the post count.

[catnapper]

Finns Mom brought up a very good point of people being hurt when nbody responds. Lately, for many reasons which don't pertain to this thread, I've been reading and not posting. I often forget who I wanted to go back and comment on -- often I forget I wanted to comment, or I thought I already commented when I didn't. I know it hurts when a lot of people looked but nobody posted. Can't win can you? ;)

As for the I agree thing - my point was that one "I agree" is normal and even expected (sorry if it sounded like I said all "I agrees" are bad - bad me for not making that clearer). Johanna, I personally love your "ditto" :D but when you see time after time the same response quoted with the same "I agree" after a handful of people already agreed, its get a little overwhelming to scroll past all the people agreeing with the first person. Its understood after a while that everyone agrees with the first person! Also, it seems after a while some people agree just to feel like they fit in with the crowd. A form of online peer pressure? Instead of wearing all the clothes like the in-crowd, they're adopting the popular opinion! LOL

PS: I know I'm guilty of bad spelling --- its less spelling and me being an awful typer. :o Sorry, I do try to edit my posts to cut down on the typos.

[Zippy]

I don't want to hurt anyones feelings by not posting that there pets are cute and there colors are beautiful.Some people never get any post on there's and i feel bad so i post something.I fell a little rude sometimes because i can't post on everone's pics

[Flatcoatluver]

I am sorry if I upset people with my "I agree" post. But it is hard going through like 5 post in a row that say I agree with this person.

Also like Vela posted it bugs me that people don't really read the post. I know there are a lot of people on here that are trying to score the their lovely pillarship thread. But I love reading long post about what you think and you earn my respect. OK there is my little vent. :) I love PT and there is just so many threads I can't keep up with. I just found out about Gina's horror story and I think I found out about it this late because all of the threads. Sorry to bring Gina into this.

[shais_mom]

I'll tell ya another thing that bothers me is that I rarely start many threads anymore especially in dog general b/c within an hour its on page 2 and I myself don't have time to go back page after page after page to look to see if I missed anything. (and I don't even have a busy life - let alone someone who has children and pets and a job). And why is my thread drowned out? b/c of the Fido walked, Fido peed, and Fido pooped threads. I know other's have said that their feelings are hurt when threads that they reply to the person doesn't reply to theirs, it isn't always b/c I don't like the person or don't care - its b/c I didn't ever see their thread!

[shais_mom]

I am sorry if I upset people with my "I agree" post. But it is hard going through like 5 post in a row that say I agree with this person.

Also like Vela posted it bugs me that people don't really read the post. I know there are a lot of people on here that are trying to score the their lovely pillarship thread. But I love reading long post about what you think and you earn my respect. OK there is my little vent. :) I love PT and there is just so many threads I can't keep up with. I just found out about Gina's horror story and I think I found out about it this late because all of the threads. Sorry to bring Gina into this.
quite honestly I don't mind whatsoever the "I agree" or the "well said" b/c that usually means that at least they READ the thread! :)

[shihtzulover850]

It seems to me (this is just my opinion) that unless you posted a picture or a video on your thread you won't get any replies or very few. And yes it is nice to see pictures especially since this is the internet and we know nothing about each other but what about the people who can't post pictures or aren't allowed? That seems a bit rude to me. And also new people post about weird things cause they don't know how you will react or what to post about really. There are a lot of pointless threads but don't blame the new people just because they are new. A lot of the people who have been here longer seem stuck up and rude to some of the new people. I am not referring to all of you and I don't mean to make anyone mad but it is true. I understand that you have been lied to and screwed and swindled by newbies but not all of them are like that. I admit that maybe I do post to much but still. No need to be rude. I am not saying that any of you were. This is actually a very nice way of bringing the matter to attention. There are bigger things in life than Pet Talk. Pet Talk is big too but people come on to enjoy it after a hard day it is nice to sit down and read the comments and see the pictures and play the guessing games. Not to get told you are immature you don't belong here and get lost! That is mainly what bothers me. Why must a person be so rude on Pet Talk? :confused: Sorry to go on but just saying.

[CagneyDog]

It seems to me (this is just my opinion) that unless you posted a picture or a video on your thread you won't get any replies or very few. And yes it is nice to see pictures especially since this is the internet and we know nothing about each other but what about the people who can't post pictures or aren't allowed? That seems a bit rude to me. And also new people post about weird things cause they don't know how you will react or what to post about really. There are a lot of pointless threads but don't blame the new people just because they are new. A lot of the people who have been here longer seem stuck up and rude to some of the new people. I am not referring to all of you and I don't mean to make anyone mad but it is true. I understand that you have been lied to and screwed and swindled by newbies but not all of them are like that. I admit that maybe I do post to much but still. No need to be rude. I am not saying that any of you were. This is actually a very nice way of bringing the matter to attention. There are bigger things in life than Pet Talk. Pet Talk is big too but people come on to enjoy it after a hard day it is nice to sit down and read the comments and see the pictures and play the guessing games. Not to get told you are immature you don't belong here and get lost! That is mainly what bothers me. Why must a person be so rude on Pet Talk? :confused: Sorry to go on but just saying.

I guess what we are all just trying to get across is, will you please just watch how much you post and how often?

[finn's mom]

A lot of the people who have been here longer seem stuck up and rude to some of the new people. I am not referring to all of you and I don't mean to make anyone mad but it is true. I understand that you have been lied to and screwed and swindled by newbies but not all of them are like that. I admit that maybe I do post to much but still. No need to be rude.

I think it's a good thing that you're brave enough to post this, and, to admit to being a frequent poster, which is what this thread is about. I've noticed rudeness towards new people, and, even though there may have been tons of new people before who have been trolls or liars, it doesn't give anyone the right to be nasty. And, honestly, I don't think you'll make anyone mad, you're just stating your opinion. And, you're stating it in a mature way, which is more than can be said for a lot of people. Someone said this to me earlier, "you can't make everyone happy." And, it's true. There are people who think it's ridiculous to post more than ten pictures in a thread, there are some people who think it's annoying to post two picture threads in one day, but, there are plenty of people who think the more, the merrier. It can't ever be exactly what everyone deems appropriate, because everyone's tolerance for things is vastly different. You'll get the hang of Pet Talk, you're still very new to it. If you stick around, you'll either find your place here and enjoy it or you will find somewhere else that you feel at home.

[shihtzulover850]

I understand that it is impossible to please everyone. I post because I enjoy it not to rack up posts. People jump to conclusions and don't get there facts straight. That is rude. I completely understand that it is hard to trust the new people but sometimes people take that to extreme lengths. You are going to scare a lot of people off that way. I have been accused of being rude and immature and frankly I don't appreciate that. Pet Talk is a community of people who enjoy talking about pets. Why can't we leave it at that?

[finn's mom]

I completely understand that it is hard to trust the new people. But sometimes people take that to extreme lengths. You are going to scare a lot of people off that way. Pet Talk is a community of people who enjoy talking about pets. Why can't they leave it at that?

A lot of times what is going on is that this is a relatively small, close knit community, at least as far as internet standards go. Some of these people are really close friends, on and off the computer. And, it's become a family for a lot of people here. Which is good. But, it can lead to a bit of animosity when other people try to join in. It's human nature to want to keep something to yourselves. Like your favorite local band, kinda. You want them to be bigger and make more money and be more famous, but, at the same time, you don't want to share with new fans. You were there first, you have known them longer, etc. But, this is a public forum, and, as long as it is a public forum, new people will find it and join. That's the appeal of a community like this. It's kindof a double-edged sword. Not everyone gets a great, warm welcome. I've seen people get scared off, definitely. And, a lot of times, it's better for the forum when that happens. Just like with anything else, not everyone is going to like it or feel at home or enjoy the way things are run. But, if you really like it here, and, you want to stick around, by all means...please do. Just like with anything else in life, though, you might have to go through some bumps in order to find your niche. I'll admit, some of the ways that people criticize is a little rough, but, for the most part, this thread has been very constructive. I hope you (being that you admitted that you frequently post...as i said earlier, i don't notice stuff like that, i am not that observant!) and anyone else who does any of the stuff that bothers multiple other users, can maybe take this constructive criticism and go with it. Anyway, I'm talking too dang much. Sorry. ;)

[shihtzulover850]

I guess what we are all just trying to get across is, will you please just watch how much you post and how often?
Sure, I apologize! :o Thank you for putting it kindly and not just turning around and saying shut up or something. Little things like that make pt a much more enjoyable place.

[finn's mom]

I understand that it is impossible to please everyone. I post because I enjoy it not to rack up posts. People jump to conclusions and don't get there facts straight. That is rude.

You added this while I was typing my other response. You're sounding a little testy, now, don't forget...this is all supposed to be for the good of the forum. No one is saying you can't post. And, I understand your confusion...if I got told that I posted pointless threads, even though they all meant something to me, I wouldn't have a clue which thread people thought was pointless, and, I'd probably just stop posting altogether. And, it may be pointless to one person, and, not to another...I do think it's kindof presumptive to say that someone is just trying to rack up posts, but, to a lot of people, that's all that it looks like because the posts seem completely unneccessary to them. But, then...that brings you back to square one...which ones are pointless? Yikes! ;) Just try to keep your chin up and not let it get you too down, like I said, you're new...you'll figure it out. ;)

[shihtzulover850]

I'll admit, some of the ways that people criticize is a little rough, but, for the most part, this thread has been very constructive. I hope you
yes it has and I thank you all for it. :)

[Miss Z]

I don't usually have a problem with how much people post. It's their account and they can do what they like with it, as long as the posts aren't offensive, rude or too controversial :) I admit to posting a couple of short answer posts when I was a couple of posts off double pillarhood, but sometimes I have to come on PT quickly, and don't have time to type a long response.

As mentioned before, I do find that some of the residents here can be rude to newbies and assume they're all trolls, and I also find occasionally that some of the 'older' people look down on, don't reply to threads and don't give messages of support to certain people if they are teenagers or newbies, and I find that pretty unkind. Anyone who is old enough to be on PT should be treated equally. When I reply to threads in introductions, I usually give my name and some info about myself so they can get to know me. When I first joined PT, I found it extremely confusing when PT residents called each other by name, of course I don't object to it, but it does sometimes make newbies feel left out. I have my name displayed under my username aswell so people know. All I'm saying is that I wish there was less friction between newbies and residents, and a few different people who visit the introduction forum more often!
Just IMHO.

[Zippy]

I really like everone on here and have already had a hurtful thread which i said i was sorry for.I post a lot i am really going to try to cut back.But i love to tell everone how great there pets are and beautiful.Everone on here is very nice and everone has diff.things they stand for so i am try to be respectful to everone and not lose my temper.We are all not the same how boring of a world would that be.

[Kfamr]

I think, for the most part, everyone on Pet Talk has been guilty for all of the above and still are on occasion.

I know when I joined 5-6 (I lost count?) years ago that I was not aware of the "proper" posting etiquette - I probably posted many pointless threads (which indeed showed with zero to no replies) and I still do! However, pointlessness is a matter of opinion - that's my opinion atleast. Someone may think it's pointless for me to post pictures of my dogs eating their first raw meal, however - it was something very important to me!


Which leads to what finn's mom was saying - which are pointless, which aren't? At first glance, I may think a thread is pointless - but when I think about it farther, if it makes that person happy.... so what? I don't have to reply to it and neither does anyone else. There's no law stating we have to!

I too am guilty about the "I agree" - I'm sure. However, I usually try to add something along with that.


As for some long-term members being "rude" or "stuck up" I do believe that is an unfair statement. We have been thru quite a bit here at Pet Talk - people lying about their deaths, going to emergency rooms, their pets getting hurt, and even having fake pets. For many, once trust is broken - it's gone for good. I know many people here are very leary of new members especially if their posts seem fishy. The best thing to do it be upfront 100% and try wording yourself as best as possible. Generally while surfing Pet Talk I have WordPad open and compile my thoughts there, read and re-read to make sure I am expressing myself as best I can. There are quite a few new members who I try giving the benefit of the doubt, but still don't know for sure about them, that includes some older members, too!



I remember getting "yelled at" for lack of better term for posting too many pictures. But, then when I went for a while without posting pictures, I got "yelled at" again! I quite caring what anyone else thought about my picture posting and just did it for me. I really enjoy posting pictures, I really enjoy receiving comments about them - but I cannot please everyone and myself at the same time. Sometimes we've just got to make sacrifices and sometimes we've got to do things soley for ourselves. ;) As long as there's an equal balance, we're okay.


I admit there's not enough time in the day to reply to everyone - and there are period I go thru only replying to members I'm familiar with. But, isn't it usually like that in person? You don't just randomly pick somone out of the phone book to call - usually just your close friends, right? I have been personally ridiculed because some new members seem to think *just* because I have the top number of posts here, I'm SUPPOSED to reply to their threads, every single time? I know there are other members who don't reply to nearly the amount of threads I do, yet they never get "yelled at."

And I understand that there are many people who reply to my posts - and I appreciate that with every grain of my being (and I assume I make that pretty clear with my thank-yous) however like I said.. there just isn't enough time. I cannot express how much it means to me when I receive comments about my three and if I could, I'd quit my job to have more time to reply to every single thread, post, or PM.


Okay.. I'm done for now and will sit here with my fingers crossed hoping no one takes this the wrong way.


{{GROUP HUG}}

[shihtzulover850]

I understand the trust thing and thank you for explaining things nicely. :) I din't know you had the most posts here! wow! :eek:

[finn's mom]

Kay, wow, there's not a thing in your post that isn't obviously from the heart, and, if it's taken the wrong way, bah. It's a fantasticly well written, very well said post. I'm glad I got back online and saw that. :)

[K9soul]

I feel I'd like to clarify a bit on my "pointless post" comment since there seems to be confusion about that. I really have no problem with people who post something that is important to them even though it may be a "small" thing. What I tend to be talking about are those who, it seems to me, are deliberately making an effort to rack up a post count as fast as they can, to start many many 'chatroom' type threads every single day, and the MOMENT these people get 1,000 posts they are the FIRST to run to general and announce it, because I think people enjoy the pillarhood posts and sometimes newer people get in a rush to see one of their own. I'm speaking of the posts that almost read like an instant messenger conversation or chat room.

I work a job where I type all day, often from morning until I go to bed, and I just can't keep up here the way I'd like. I always hate responding only to 1-2 people, and then others start reading things into it such "well she only responds to older people" or "she must not like me." So I've gotten to the point where my posting is very minimal at this time. However I truly enjoy taking a break from work for a couple minutes sometimes, and looking through pictures, or reading a story.

I think this thread is very constructive and gives everyone something to think about from differing perspectives. We just have to be open to that rather than getting defensive and reading too much negative into people's thoughts.

[beeniesmom]

Hmmm....Interesting thread. Is this a joke thread or are y'all serious?
Makes one feel a little "frightened" to be replying to one.
:eek:

I was thinking the same thing.


I think the people in question know who they are and hopefully, they'll take heed when they see it. This board doesn't need to be cluttered with a ton of useless garbage.

Actually, I don't think they know who they are because some have replied here.

Sometimes people write "I agree" just to show support. I guess... I know that when I post a thread and get no answers I feel a bit ignored. Even one smily makes me think that someone cares. It's just a subjective thing. I do think that some people need to tone it down with the MANY post a day about "random thoughts" that really don't interest the general population.

Am I babbling?


and with the 90 posts per person then you can't keep up with ones you want to. Then when the thread is bumped up a week later or so I'm always like - wow where'd that come from b/c it was boggled down by so many other
Fido took a walk threads.

HEHEHEHE! Exactly!

[Suki Wingy]

I am guilty of just repying "Aww :D :D " to a lot of picture threads but it is often times because I looked through the pictures and want to let them know I did and that I thought they were cute but didn't have anything else to say.

[Roxyluvsme13]

I am guilty of just repying "Aww :D :D " to a lot of picture threads but it is often times because I looked through the pictures and want to let them know I did and that I thought they were cute but didn't have anything else to say.
I'm guilty of that, too. Especially when on MSN or AIM someone asks me to reply to a thread. Then, of course they don't reply to mine, so I don't see why I bother. Anyways, I apologize for "I agree, and Aww"

[shihtzulover850]

Exactly! A lot of times there isn't anything more to say. :)

[Lizzie]

I have found this thread constructive also, though I wasn't sure it would be when I first saw it.

I just checked when I joined and was shocked that it's nearly 6 months, but I still feel like a newbie - and to those that have been here 4+ years, I am. I've done a few things to fit in better with an established community and I think it has helped me. I realized after a few weeks that I couldn't simply post my questions and wait for answers, I had to join in and comment on other people's problems, commiserate with their losses, and become a useful member of the community rather than using it. I've also tried to learn posters first names by seeing the way they are referred by others who have been here a long time, hoping at the same time that I'm not insulting them by using their first name unasked.

I have to accept the fact that I'm a text person (I clung to DOS and ignored icons for as long as I could) but more people are picture oriented, and that I need to post a photo or two if I want to attract attention to my thread. I often feel guilty that I rarely write a response to the mainly photo threads, but that's better than saying something for the sake of it.

Anyway, I also thank you Lindsey, for starting this thread.

[jazzcat]

I am guilty of just repying "Aww :D :D " to a lot of picture threads but it is often times because I looked through the pictures and want to let them know I did and that I thought they were cute but didn't have anything else to say.
I do that a lot too because I think it's a short and sweet way to say to the poster I saw the picture/post, enjoyed it and thanks for posting it.

When I post I appreciate acknowledgement that it was seen and am happy with just "aww". I know the number of views shows it was seen but a reply, even brief, means more to me. I guess it just tells me it my post wasn't "pointless".

I do agree that there seems to be a lot of new threads started that may be geared for raising post counts and that can get annoying. Usually I notice who those posters are and I get to the point I never open anything they post. Ashame because at some point they might post something interesting and I'll miss it.

[K9soul]

Lizzie, I had a trouble remembering names for a long time (and sometimes still do). One thing that helped me is sometimes people would start a thread and ask others to post their names to help get to know them. Perhaps we should do that again with so many newer people here.

I also have to agree with something said earlier that it can make someone look silly if they reply without really reading what they are replying to. For example, someone posts a picture, sharing about a pet that has passed away, telling about the pet and what he/she meant to them.. and you suddenly see a reply "Oh he's cute! How old is he?" It's really advisable to make sure you read a post before you reply ;)

[Vela]

I feel I'd like to clarify a bit on my "pointless post" comment since there seems to be confusion about that. I really have no problem with people who post something that is important to them even though it may be a "small" thing. What I tend to be talking about are those who, it seems to me, are deliberately making an effort to rack up a post count as fast as they can, to start many many 'chatroom' type threads every single day, and the MOMENT these people get 1,000 posts they are the FIRST to run to general and announce it, because I think people enjoy the pillarhood posts and sometimes newer people get in a rush to see one of their own. I'm speaking of the posts that almost read like an instant messenger conversation or chat room.

I work a job where I type all day, often from morning until I go to bed, and I just can't keep up here the way I'd like. I always hate responding only to 1-2 people, and then others start reading things into it such "well she only responds to older people" or "she must not like me." So I've gotten to the point where my posting is very minimal at this time. However I truly enjoy taking a break from work for a couple minutes sometimes, and looking through pictures, or reading a story.

I think this thread is very constructive and gives everyone something to think about from differing perspectives. We just have to be open to that rather than getting defensive and reading too much negative into people's thoughts.


Sorry but I have to say it, I agree =x. We work the same job so I have the same thoughts on this. I very much enjoy the stories and pictures even though I don't always say something, especially if a lot of people already have, since I would have nothing left to add, although I do enjoy them. If there is a thread or question about something I don't know about, I don't post, I can't help them. Seems like posting "well I don't know" to it would be pointless. And I have seen some people do this in many posts. If it's a question or problem and you can't either offer a suggstion to help or encouragement, don't post to it maybe. Saying thigs like "I don't know" or "aww too bad" doesn't really do anything but clutter the board. I also am not a big fan of posts about things like "I read a book" or "I had steak for dinner", if you know what I mean. That's great, but it really clutters the board for those with something more to say than that. But that's just me, and how I feel about it. I hate missing a post about a sick or dying pet or person, just because someone wanted to tell us how many times a day their dog poops. I really don't think anyone in this thread is trying to upset anyone else, and it's not about exclusion of anyone, it's about realizing that sometimes posting things like that can detract from the board environment for everyone and we all need to try to have board etiquette and think how what we post and how often we post it can have positive and negative consequences.

[Tubby & Peanut's Mom]

I agree on one hand, then on the other hand I disagree....maybe because the last few times I've been on there's been a few days (ok, somtimes a week) since the last time I posted so I want to make sure I reply to all the posts that well.....my whole grind here is that we've all heard the threads where people complain that people don't respond to their threads. So here I am after being away from PT for 2 - 3 days and I want to respond to threads because people like it when you respond, and what's the point of starting a thread if people don't respond to it?

So, we're supposed to respond to peoples' threads, yet we're not supposed to reply with little one or two line responses. Do you want me to respond or not? :confused: :rolleyes: I'm a bit grumpy and crabby today so my opinion right now might not be appropriate but if you don't want me to respond, fine, I won't, but then don't start complaining when you don't get any responses. :rolleyes: Sheesh.

[K9soul]

I'm on a roll here with gabbing in this thread today.. but I had to add something else.

I don't think people mind if someone posts "cute pics!" to a thread they like. It's when there are 30 new threads, and someone goes down each of the 30 threads, and types "cute pics!" in every single one of them, identically, within a 3 minute period. It has no meaning, and seems to be done purely for post count.

[finn's mom]

If it's a question or problem and you can't either offer a suggstion to help or encouragement, don't post to it maybe. Saying thigs like "I don't know" or "aww too bad" doesn't really do anything but clutter the board.


I agree with most of what's been said so far in this thread and how it's been said. But, on this, I must comment. This is where it gets fuzzy on what's proper etiquette. There are some people who would rather you say something (even if it's "i don't know, i'm sorry i can't help"), than just view and not reply at all. Again, I think the biggest thing to remember is that you can't please everyone. I think there are a lot of people would rather know that someone read their question and thought about it and told them that they don't know how to help, as opposed to seeing 30 views and one reply. I'm not disagreeing with you, Vela, just pointing out that it can be very confusing to someone on what's the proper thing to do. And, I think in some cases, there isn't always one right answer. It just depends on the poster as to what they like to see.

[finn's mom]

Do you want me to respond or not? :confused:

We posted at the same time. ;)

[Vela]

Exactly! That's exactly it.

[finn's mom]

It's when there are 30 new threads, and someone goes down each of the 30 threads, and types "cute pics!" in every single one of them, identically, within a 3 minute period. It has no meaning, and seems to be done purely for post count.


I agree that it would be silly to do that, but, I think sometimes people do it so as not to show favorites or to post on one picture thread and not on another. But, then, like you said, it has no meaning if it's the exact same reply to every single picture thread. ;)

[Vela]

I agree with most of what's been said so far in this thread and how it's been said. But, on this, I must comment. This is where it gets fuzzy on what's proper etiquette. There are some people who would rather you say something (even if it's "i don't know, i'm sorry i can't help"), than just view and not reply at all. Again, I think the biggest thing to remember is that you can't please everyone. I think there are a lot of people would rather know that someone read their question and thought about it and told them that they don't know how to help, as opposed to seeing 30 views and one reply. I'm not disagreeing with you, Vela, just pointing out that it can be very confusing to someone on what's the proper thing to do. And, I think in some cases, there isn't always one right answer. It just depends on the poster as to what they like to see.


Well this is true, I mean it more in the context of what Jessica said, that someone who posts generic responses to everyone's threads, really seems like they don't really care, they respond to all the threads the same pretty much and often say things to the point that you can even tell they didn't read it. I'm not saying NEVER post things like that...it's the megaposters who do it generically that don't seem to really care what is going on with that poster. There are always exceptions to every "rule" or situation.

[jazzcat]

I don't think people mind if someone posts "cute pics!" to a thread they like. It's when there are 30 new threads, and someone goes down each of the 30 threads, and types "cute pics!" in every single one of them, identically, within a 3 minute period. It has no meaning, and seems to be done purely for post count.

When I was new here I felt like I needed to reply to everyone's posts to make friends and keep them, if you know what I mean. I didn't want to hurt anyone's feeling by making them think I ignored their posts. I finally realized I neither needed to do that nor could I keep up that pace. I truly wasn't trying to boost my post count I was just trying to be friendly. I'm going to give some of these new posters the benefit of the doubt that they are just thinking like I did at first. They'll soon figure it out or burn out which seems to be what happens.

T&P's Mom - I'll take a short reply from you any day!!! :D :D ;)

[finn's mom]

Well this is true, I mean it more in the context of what Jessica said

Ah, I didn't see that you two were saying the same thing at all when she posted that last bit about the generic posts! My bad!

[Vela]

Hehe no bad, it's just sometimes hard to get across what we mean on a message board since I know what I meant but perhaps didn't say it in such a way that others saw what I meant, we all interpret what we read differently sometimes. In my mind it made sense, but I can see how someone else might read it differently.

[finn's mom]

When I was new here I felt like I needed to reply to everyone's posts to make friends and keep them, if you know what I mean. I didn't want to hurt anyone's feeling by making them think I ignored their posts.

T&P's Mom - I'll take a short reply from you any day!!! :D :D ;)

That's what I was thinking, too! That maybe there are some people trying to boost their count, but, maybe there are people just trying to be super friendly (but, then, posting the same exact reply...heck, use a thesaurus if you must!... does seem a bit silly).

And, T&P's Mom, me, too! :D

[finn's mom]

Hehe no bad, it's just sometimes hard to get across what we mean on a message board since I know what I meant but perhaps didn't say it in such a way that others saw what I meant, we all interpret what we read differently sometimes. In my mid it made sense, but I can see how someone else might read it differently.

I know how that goes! IM and texts, too, are hard to decipher sometimes. I was mostly referring to the bit about not replying if you didn't have an answer to the person's question.

[K9soul]

Everyone's perspectives in this thread have been interesting and have made me think, as well as it has been nice to share my own. I'm glad people are posting their viewpoints and perspectives without it getting ugly or personal. It's always good to look at things from different angles. :)

[finn's mom]

Everyone's perspectives in this thread have been interesting and have made me think, as well as it has been nice to share my own. I'm glad people are posting their viewpoints and perspectives without it getting ugly or personal. It's always good to look at things from different angles. :)

This has been a great thread, very refreshing. :D I always like to hear your side, as you put it in a way that is mature and thoughtful. That's also refreshing!

[jazzcat]

but, then, posting the same exact reply...heck, use a thesaurus if you must!... does seem a bit silly).

:D
Okay, I decided to do my part to help. I put in Cute at Thesaurus.com and got these entries:
adorable
adroit
beautiful
becoming
charming
dainty
deft
fetching
pretty
quaint
sharp
winning

Maybe this will liven up the generic posting, LOL! I'm just being silly today! :p

[finn's mom]

Okay, I decided to do my part to help. I put in Cute at Thesaurus.com and got these entries:

Maybe this will liven up the generic posting, LOL! I'm just being silly today! :p

how funny, i just did the same thing!

[Lizzie]

"Cute" is a problem too since it is read one way by people from the U.S. and another by those in England and probably Australia, etc. The first time my new mother-in-law told me I looked cute, I stormed off to my room and changed my clothes. I was 28, not 2. So, my reaction to "cute" is "yuck". :D

Which is all to say that I'm agreeing with others that we are a group of, often dramatically, different people with one thing in common that keeps us bonded together. I have to tell myself that posters who simply say something generic in response are being kind and sociable, and truly appreciate their response. Being me, I'd rather get one heartfelt response or none at all. I crave information, getting it and creating thoughtful responses, that's what I'm looking for here. That makes me a poor poster to many others on the forum because I won't simply respond to a thread to show that I read and appreciated it - sorry, but we must all be true to ourselves. Long live diversity!

[christa]

So :) I :) can't :) make :) smilies :) anymore? :)

Just kidding, LOL . . . seriously, this is a funny thread! Should we have a POST PATROL or something??? I've never heard such commotion and complaining about how people post and when they post and what they post. I have to laugh, I'm sorry. Sure, it's annoying to come on and see the same little threads day in and day out, but you know what? I realize that most of these threads have probably been started by 14 year olds and judging by the titles of the threads, I can see what they'll be and usually don't even click into them. Problem solved!

As for the responses, I have no problem with making my response short and sweet, nor do I mind getting a short & sweet response. What annoys me is when I go to the trouble of actually making a thread and getting no responses at all. THAT is annoying and a big reason why I don't start many threads. I try to make my responses as personal as possible, but how personal can you get on a message board? What kind of response do you expect? I guess in my case, over the past year or so, I have gradually just become more of a lurker . . . post only occasionally . . . Maybe that's what you want everyone to do? But if that's what everyone did, would this board be as successful as it's been in the past? It's booming constantly because people are constantly keeping it going . . . I guess I just don't see the harm.

[gini]

THE POST PATROL! Now that is funny! Yes, we definitely need one of those and an alarm can sound on your computer to alert you to the latest offender.

I have to laugh also, because you know that our Mayor hasn't missed a beat on this thread - but she is very silent. I imagine she is chuckling in the background.

Good night everyone - it's my bedtime.

[Russian Blue]

Actually, I have seen this topic brought up on many forums over the last few years. When you're new to a forum I think it's important to feel like your threads get responses from the people on that forum. I know that my first thread here at Pet Talk got a huge response and that is in part why I stayed. I figured that if that many people were concerned about Nakita and made me feel welcomed on my first post, I felt comfortable and appreciated by that community. So I do see the need to post, even a few lines to say that you agree with a poster or to provide support or to comment on a new arrival of a furkid.

But, there is a difference when someone posts one word answers or starts 'pointless' threads to either get noticed or to up their post count. A few forums that I have been on have removed post counts and titles next to usernames. After all, threads should be about quality not quantity. Once they removed the post counts, the number of 'pointless' threads greatly decreased and I think many of the mega posters left the forum because the 'goal' of being top poster was eliminated. That forum became one of my favourite forums to visit on the internet because the threads that were posted were intelligent, informative and supportive. You wanted to read the threads, not scroll by them. Not saying that has to be done here but I know a few posters who have cut back on their time here because they simply do not have time to scroll through a zillion posts to get to the interesting ones.


So, we're supposed to respond to peoples' threads, yet we're not supposed to reply with little one or two line responses. Do you want me to respond or not? :confused

I have totally changed my internet time over the last year. I have limited time and sometimes don't log in for a few days or weeks at a time. If I'm trying to show support or want to post sometimes I only have a few minutes before bed to view threads. Therefore, I only have time to post a few words of support, or encouragement or just type 'cute pics'. Though I doubt anyone would see me as a post hog since it did take a couple of years for me to reach my first pillar. ;)

[finn's mom]

A few forums that I have been on have removed post counts and titles next to usernames. After all, threads should be about quality not quantity. Once they removed the post counts, the number of 'pointless' threads greatly decreased and I think many of the mega posters left the forum because the 'goal' of being top poster was eliminated.


I know you're not saying it should be done here, but, that would ROCK if it were! I don't know why I'd never thought of that before, but, it makes complete sense! ;)

[beeniesmom]

I know that my first thread here at Pet Talk got a huge response and that is in part why I stayed.

Glad I didn't take the same approach.
My first thread got like 2 responses. From Robin and Gingers mom (thanks guys) ... but I didn't care. I liked reading about everyone here and have gotten attached along the way.

[finn's mom]

I liked reading about everyone here and have gotten attached along the way.


And, I know I speak for many here when I say I'm glad you stuck around!

And, Russian Blue, too! :) You both are part of why I stay at Pet Talk!

[JenBKR]

It doesn't really bother me, but I can understand why it might bother some people. I know there have been a lot of pointless threads started (although for the life of me I can't figure out who you guys were talking about in dog general), and sometimes I read them and sometimes I don't. There are times when I open threads with pictures and don't respond, either because I don't really have the time or because there's already plenty of 'aww how cute' responses, and I don't really have any intelligent comment to make ;)

[shihtzulover850]

yeah neither can I. I haven't noticed that many pointless threads. Some yes but others no. Not to bad anyway...

[anna_66]

It's nice to check back on this thread and see that everyone can give and take constructive criticism (including myself) without getting all mean and nasty.
This is just one of the reasons I love Pet Talk so much:)

I guess we all have different opinions and that's fine because what a boring world we'd be living in if we were all the same:p

[K9soul]

Should we have a POST PATROL or something??? I've never heard such commotion and complaining about how people post and when they post and what they post.

I don't think it's a commotion at all, it's a discussion (and I think a very civil one) with different viewpoints on this topic. I think it can be very relieving to people to be able to express their thoughts on things like this from time to time. It's like having friends/family that do little things that irritate you, and over time it becomes more and more irritating because you are keeping your thoughts in about it. When you finally sit down and are able to discuss it and see their perspective, it can be constructive and make both sides of the issue a bit more aware and understanding. I know I've felt more of an urge to visit and post here and there again since I was able to express some of the things that have been bothering me when I visited PT.

Most issues start out petty and small and become bigger, communication of differing perspectives can really help curtail growing resentments and misunderstandings.

Some things that bother me I'm sure would seem very silly to others, and some things that bother others I cannot relate to or understand either, but I think it's most considerate to listen and treat feelings seriously even if they may seem small or silly or petty. Just my 2 cents :)

[smokey the elder]

One poster's pointless thread is another's earth shaking event. I don't think it's fair to judge. One always has the option to not open the thread, after all.

As far as "trolls" are concerned, I believe there have been only a few over the last several years that are really bad, i.e. nearly universally offensive. Most of the time there may be some bored kids who, if given a chance, may actually stick around and learn something.

I've written before about the "one-dimensionality" of type (no vocal tone or body language). Especially for folks for whom English is a second (or later!) language, we should not judge grammar so much. I wish I could find that funky paragraph with all the letters jumbled up, to show how we read words!

One thing I would prefer is that people don't use texting shortcuts. These are very hard to read for those more "chronologically gifted" folks like me. ;) :p

[Alysser]

Another thing I have noticed is that people post smilies with sentences that have nothing to do with the smiley. For example, if they say "I took Fido for a walk today!" They post with smilies like this :rolleyes: ;) :cool: :eek: . What's the point in that? I find they just want to post smilies and it gets annoying to see 100 smilies in one post. It's been one person doing this around Dog general.

Another thing is, some people post in EVERY single thread they see, even if there is no need to. It's great to want to feel involved but do they have to post on every thread. The comments they post are usually 1 to 5 words and it's annoying to go through a thread and have to go over comments over and over agian made by the same person.