Dudes and Dudettes,
One word: LAW.
As far as i know there are laws governing the basic requirements for the housing of animals, these laws also apply to pet stores like everyone else. So, if you feel that voting with your wallet is not going to bring change around quickly enough - go to the law.
Here in South Africa we have a few very good animal anti cruelty associations. PAWS and the SPCA are just 2 that leaps to mind. And if they don't get involved quickly enough we have TV shows where people can phone in and lodge a complaint against certain stores / businesses. These TV shows then visit the business in question and thus everything is splashed out in the public eye.
Then I also know of people who have splashed cellphone footage on YOU TUBE which have destroyed a business.
So yeah, I do believe there are good pet stores, breeders, hobbyist etc, and I also believe in supporting them, as for the rest...I believe in shaming them as they deserve nothing less (or more LOL) after they have declined getting help to get on to the right track.

Thanks for this thread Eric!