Regarding that poor baby ferret, stumbling around sick with a tank full of
rabbits in the pet store:
 
Why didn't you just come out and discuss it with them?  Maybe they were at a
loss at what to do, too.  If you get confrontational (which you clearly were
not willing to do!), most people in that situation will just get defensive
and you will get nowhere. But if you profess concern for the ferret, and
show you want to help the employee (or owner, if present) maybe you will get
a better response.  They might even appreciate some advice, the FML email
address, the phone number of a vet that knows ferrets, whatever.
 
On the other hand, they could just tell you to go jump in a lake anyway--but
give peace a chance, first.  Often a gentle approach makes things happen.
 
Also, I have read of other people on the list who "rescue" a sick ferret by
buying it, often at a ridiculous price.  Many people seem unwilling to risk
confrontation.  However, I don't think it is such a good idea to "reward" a
pet store for selling unhealthy stock.  Buying it should be the very last
resort--and if other animals in the store are poorly cared for, it might be
necessary to threaten and/or carry out a report to the local Humane Society,
the Better Business Bureau, and the nearest animal rescue people.
A sick animal should NOT be on display for sale.  Poor business ethics.
Good luck. Hope that baby gets saved.
 
Sue Kocher
[Posted in FML issue 1522]