I am shocked at the attitude that some members of this community are
expressing regarding this little ferret and her benefactors ... I totally
agree with everything that was done, including the questions - I would
have asked the same ones.  The ferret never should have been neglected
by the owners when she became adrenal.  Nor did they do "everything"
they could have to get her back .... and they are the reason that ferret
died - she should have had the surgery much sooner, when she had a chance
at a better outcome.
 
As to Ms. McCabes question, "What if ...." there is no "what if" - if she
had been my ferret, she would have had the surgery at the first sign of
adrenal trouble - by the best vet in the area.  And I get all my ferrets
microchipped.  And if she had gotten out, I would have been combing the
neighborhood, had posters up, alerted the neighbors, been down to animal
control in person to leave a photo and my phone numbers at work, home,
cell phone, and they would get a call or visit from me every day.  I also
would have alerted the kids in the area (they are always out and about),
the vets, the pet shops, and the ferret rescue.  I would run an ad in the
paper.  I did all this for a dog I found, and that is how you try to get
your ferret back .... and if I couldn't afford to have the surgery, I
would BLESS the person who found her, and rejoice that she was safe - and
let them keep her - because they could offer her more hope than I could.
Sure, I would cry, for a long time, but I love my ferrets, and want the
best for them.  And I bet most other ferret owners would, too.  My heart
goes out to the people who opened their hearts and wallets to a little
lost ferret, may they be blessed for their kindness.  Let's try to
remember who the good guys are here ....
[Posted in FML issue 4922]