Venting...

[DowningAir]

My taxidermist is getting to me. When I called to take my deer in he said six months. I know better so I assumed six at the earliest probably closer to a year. I call him at six months and he says probably another two months. Call him after those two and he says probably another one. Call him after that and he doesn't pick up the phone or return my calls. It's been a year now and it's anyone's guess as to when I'm gonna get my mount.

I hate to call him and ask for updates becasue I know its a time consuming skill and he does a lot of work. I was never hot with him and hardly wasted any of his time, just anxious to get it back. Now I'm at the point where I don't think I'd want to do business with him again, and would probably tell others to try elsewhere as well.

As a taxidermist, isn't better for business just to be upfront in the first place and not give unrealistic time tables? I'm sure when I get it back it will be very nicely done and probably worth the time. I'm just a little sour at how he's handled it all and the times that he's given me.

I know this is common and I'm probably overreacting. I just want my mount! Had to vent...

[M.Magis]

As a taxidermist, isn't better for business just to be upfront in the first place and not give unrealistic time tables?

Yes, it absolutely is. Some people just hate being honest if they think the customer won't like the answer. It's a bad way to run a shop, and almost always catches up with the owner.
One the other hand, there is the possibility that circumstances have caused him to get behind and he's doing everything possible to get caught up. It would be unfair for anyone to draw conclusions without know all the facts. Still, you have every reason to get frustrated. He should at least return your calls with a realistic completion date.

[excalibur43]

I agree. If there IS a problem, he should be upfront with you about it. I, personally, will contact the customer and explain the situation, if I run into a problem that is going to postpone the finishing of their mount. As was stated, hear your taxi's side of the story and find out the facts first.He should, at least, owe you an honest explanation.

[DowningAir]

Originally Posted by M.Magis

One the other hand, there is the possibility that circumstances have caused him to get behind and he's doing everything possible to get caught up. It would be unfair for anyone to draw conclusions without know all the facts.

This is true, and may very well be the case. Guess I would just like to know a little more about what is going on. Can't really expect him to call me about every detail though I guess. Just anxious!

[rgswildlife]

Customers should do some research before they drop any animals and such off to a taxidermy shop. Most sporting good stores will be able to tell you who is good and who is going to run you around. If you try this first you will be happy with who you pick and most likely if there is a problem you will hear from the person you picked before you get all upset. Good luck.

[NJheadhunter71]

Problem is most taxi's are part time and they get backed up. Other is sometimes it is hard to tell how long it will exactly take when you don't answer the phone cause you are in the woods hunting