My local chain store is terrible too. Dead fish all over the place, white spot all the time and unsuitable tank mates in a tank together, I get so mad!
I am going to write a very firm letter to them. Addressed to head office I might add. 9/10 problems reported to shop assisstants get swept under the carpet, so go for the head guy/girl. Maybe this is something you can do? Don't worry about how to write the letter. I know a link to an already well written letter which you can simply change to your needs. If this is something you want to do, I shall pm you the link.
Failing this you could try looking further afield at other shops. Or check out some of the many online breeder websites. Sometimes it is worth paying that little bit extra for your Betta.
