Today July 25, 1996 at 6:15 Pm Ferret Wise lost another hero -- Opie-- Opie
arrived at Ferret Wise Shelter in March of 1995 along with his companion
Snowbear.  Both ferrets were victims of cedar toxicity having been bedded
directly on cedar shavings for the first 2 1/2 years of their lives.  Sickly
and unkempt they had been on an inadequate grocery store diet and had great
trouble walking.  After a regimen of antibiotics for urinary tract problems
and a new healthy diet both ferrets recovered well gaining strength and
stamina.  Foster parents Pam and Frank Trovato took them from the shelter to
provide a loving home.
 
Late this Spring Opie developed some behavior problems, then came the
urinary tract infection that wouldn't quit followed by hair loss.  The hair
loss was only on the underside of the body from chin to belly, not the usual
patterning.
 
After several trips to the vet, surgery was scheduled for today for an
exploratory with suspicion of adrenal disease.  A bi-lateral adrenal
condition was found and both glands were removed.  At the same time nodes
were detected on the pancreas and the stomach.  Following surgery
hemorrhaging (sp) began and Opie was allowed to sleep.  His mission complete
Pam and Frank brought him back to Ferrets View to spend his time watching
and protecting the shelter kids.
 
Little Opie was dealt a difficult hand of cards, but this morning after
barely moving for several days as Pam readied him for his last great ride
Opie danced and played as if he were celebrating life.  We will all remember
Opie and we are sure he is dancing still at rainbows end.
[Posted in FML issue 1643]