Having been through only a tiny bit of ferret ownership (and first major
screw-up), I'd like to offer these equally tiny bits of late-found wisdom.
 
You, as a new owner, will:
 
1)    be told most of the stuff you need to know if you buy from someone who
      cares.
1a)   forget most of what you were told.
2)    read the books, magazines, and posts by FMLers and the like.
2a)   question some of the stuff you read.
3)    forget some of what you've read, and more of what you were told.
3a)   have a problem.
4)    reread the articles, BBS, FAQ, posts, etc.
5)    settle into a comfort zone with your pals -- things go swimmingly for
      awhile.
6)    feel pretty sure of yourself and make a small mistake.
7)    think "Why didn't I listen when s/he mentioned that?"
8)    make a big mistake, causing minor crisis.
9)    call/fax/post/ask/anguish to solve problems created by your stupid
      mistake.
9a)   think "I *knew* that ... how can I be so dumb?"
9b)   blame yourself though you don't *entirely* deserve it.
10)   repeat steps 1 thru 9b.
 
Most importantly -- enjoy your mustelid buds and their love of life.  You'll
probably outlive 'em, but you're one LUCKY palooka if you out-fun 'em.
 
It's good to have them back.  Condolences to those who don't.
 
Swampp.
[Posted in FML issue 1272]