I have to agree with yesterday's posters - there's no need to start
another fight over this.
 
Let's all realize though, that while the membership of the FML knows a
lot, they don't know everything.  They don't know the answer to every
question.  They most especially can't diagnose every medical problem
from a distance, without ever seeing the ferret, based on a brief email
description of the symptoms.  Sometimes they can, yes, but not always.
In fact most vets *refuse* to give a diagnosis or even advice in these
circumstances because of the liability involved.  There is a very high
chance that they will be wrong, since all they have to go on is the
owner's description of the symptoms, not a first-hand evaluation of
their own.
 
This is why the most common advice you see for medical questions is
"take him or her to your vet."  A first-hand evaluation by a knowledgable
vet is always the best solution.
 
Anyway, it all comes down to this.  Many questions will get answered,
but not all.  Some the FML doesn't have answers for.  Don't take it
personally if you don't get any replies for your questions, and please
don't bash the FML membership for not answering.  When they have answers,
the response is overwhelming.  The people here want to help.  If they
don't answer, it's not because you're being ignored; it's most likely
because they don't HAVE an answer for you.
 
Also note that when some members have "generic" advice like "go see a
vet", they might wait a day or two to see if somebody else posts more
relevant advice first.  Answers don't always come immediately.
 
Most of all, the FML is not a substitute for good veterinary care.
For medical questions ALWAYS seek advice from a competent ferret vet.
Also, online, the Ferret Health List
(http://www.smartgroups.com/groups/ferrethealth) is generally a better
resource for medical questions than the FML.
 
roger
[Posted in FML issue 4602]