Hi Kristeen- I'm glad you kept Al, and that everything worked out for both of you! I was referring to ferrets that had not yet been purchased being euthanized s opposed to being returned. I wrote and signed an informal 'release of liability' for Girlie. Since she was 'given' to me, I didn't receive a certificate/warranty stating her approximate birthdate, which I really wanted. (Only for the birthdate). Meghan: I am NOT 100% certain on this, but I'm pretty sure the vulva swelling could be caused by adrenal gland disease. I don't believe she would necessarily have to exhibit the patterned hair loss to have it. At least not early on. AGAIN, I am NOT certain. If I were you, I would check with a vet and search the FML archives, too. I know several web addresses were posted within the past few weeks regarding ferret medical info. If you can't find them, e-mail me. I'll find and give them to you. Sonya [Posted in FML issue 2929]