To be honest I didn't want this to turn into a pissing match. Thanks for the comments. I bought these due to their price and the fact that the mortar tubs at home depot and lowes both have the new hanging hole in the sloped end. I figured that this would allow easy access for chewing and create an easier route than the ridges in the bottom. I can fab something up to block the bottom but any time you fill a hole they will just find a spot and rechew the hole out. Thanks again for all the input.
easy solution to that is to buy a roll of "metal hanger" from the hardware store and make a patch. Ask for it in the plumbing section.
Never seen the "hanging hole" in the ones sold at Lowe's. They are made by different companies.