Had a terrible smell like animal urine

My son really likes this and has been playing (somewhat) happily with it, but was very disappointed to find that the box contained only 25 of the 26 pieces pictured. Specifically our set is missing the construction man's helmet. Poor quality control by M&D. Disappointed, but not interested in the hassle of sending it back for replacement.

I'm just not a fan of Melissa and Doug, period. I think they are poor quality (paint flakes) and just a little more thought could make them better. For instance, why go through the effort of making a wooden storage box if it doesn't have a lid? A hinged lid with a clasp would have made this way better to clean up and store (even on a bookcase). Or a flat magnetic lid if they didn't want hinges. Just a lid that fits and stays on! As it is, I'll probably zip lock the pieces and toss the box - how wasteful.