Hi Debbie:

I've been asked the same question... why do I put myself thru the
heartache of taking in ferrets that are very ill? I'm a "personal
rescue", and I take in needy ferrets from shelters, the humane society,
or elsewhere. I've had some very hard cases in the last couple of years
(first while still with my ex, who is also a wonderful ferret lover,
and then on my own), and I had to put to sleep 8 in a year's time, and
3 in one week. But like you, I know that I've given those that are with
me, even for only a few months, at least that much time to feel love
and to know what a good life is. And when they pass away, it's in my
arms, hearing my voice, and knowing that they are loved. They are not
alone and scared when they pass on. Hopefully that makes up at least a
little for the lousy life that they had before.

Even when they are blind, or have cancer, or advanced adrenal disease,
or insulinoma, or more than one of the above, I take on the cost and
the responsibility of caring for them around the clock. Fortunately, I
work from home, so I can get up every 3 hours during the night when a
ferret nearing the end needs help going to the bathroom or eating or
getting pain meds. I know most of the world doesn't understand, but
you do. And so do many others here. And every day I silently wish that
there were more people like you in the world, and like those who are
selfless in running shelters and rescues all over the country and all
over the world. There's just not nearly enough of you to make up for
all of the people who neglect and discard these beautiful little kids.

Jeff
In Loving Memory of Neo, Trinity, Morphy, Possum, Pip, Pop, Sabrina,
Minnie Mouse, Hunny, Misty, Frodo, Baggins, and Mr. Parker
Caring for Luna, Baby Girl, Dozer, Boomer, and Zoomer 

[Posted in FML 7157]