I have a special request of FML members. To complete the irregular series of posts I have been writing regarding ferret pet food labels, I need actual labels. Since I neither have the desire to buy hundreds of dollars of pet foods to gain access to the labels, and not all TYPES or BRANDS of ferrets foods are sold in my region, I request that FML members mail the labels to me as soon as possible. What I wish to do with the labels is to create a comparative chart which could be used for cross comparisons of ferret food. I would make this data first available on the FML (because the info was contributed by FML members), but would probably publish it in Modern Ferret as well. I need as many brands as possible, from as many countries as possible as quickly as possible. To do this properly, I need the entire outer label (wrapper) and a small sample of the dry food (maybe a ounce) so I can photograph it, measure shape and size, hardness (if dry), and other qualities. The label will also give me the manufacturer's name, and I plan on requesting a more detailed analysis of the food as well. If the food is a wet type, I do NOT need a sample unless you are willing to mail an unopened can (tin). If the food is from a bag, the outer label can be cut with a razor blade down each side and the entire label (front and back) can be removed, folded and mailed in an envelope (please don't send the inner bag, it just adds weight). If the food comes in a box with an outer wrapper, you can do the same thing. If the label is directly printed on the box, you can store the food in ziplocks, carefully flatten the box and ship it in a mailing envelope. Labels on cans (tins) can be razor sliced next to the 'glue spot" and carefully peeled off. Samples should be stored inside two ziplocks and included with the label. If you cannot afford donating the cost of the sample and postage, if you request, I can return those costs to you, but ask first because I may not actually want 20 people each sending a can of 8-in-1Ultra-Blend Beef Dinner for Ferrets at cost plus postage. ;-) Since there may be some regional differences in labeling, it would be interesting to see what they are, so I don't think there should be a need to worry about multiple submissions. In other words, just send the labels without worry of duplication. If I get too many of a single type, I will announce it here. Also, please don't wait until the food container is empty; you can store the food in ziplocks or plastic tubs. If you wait until the food container is empty before sending it in, I won't be able to add it too the list, or I would have to wait weeks before being able to compare it. If you are overseas, if you can, please ship by some sort of fast mailing method. I would appreciate an e-mail notification of your intent to mail the sample and label, but it is unnecessary, and I won't have time to acknowledge them. When I post the raw data on the FML (or publish in printed media), I will acknowledge by name all those who have donated material towards this project (unless specifically asked not to do so). Following my typical policy, I will allow this comparative chart to be posted in other news groups, in non-profit regional newsletters and on web pages upon request. I am not trying to make a profit; I simply want to get the best possible information to ferret owners. Please help, and please do not delay. Please get this information to me as soon as possible. Mail to: Bob Church POB 1988 Columbia MO 65205. Thank you all for your help in this matter. Bob C and 16 Mo' Loafing Label Readers [Posted in FML issue 3058]