>From: Donna R Clark <[log in to unmask]> >Subject: recent rescues >.....If they had taken just a little time to look into the matter they >would have found out that ferrets do take time and that they are not >throw-away pets when they get to be too much trouble. I don't mind taking >these little fuzzies, what I do mind is peoples irresponsibility when it >comes to pets. Should it not be instilled in everyone (from birth) that a >pet is a commitment. And when the cuteness and the newness goes away that >little animal still needs the person or people... >I am sorry if I offened anyone, I did not mean to.... Cuteness that goes away ???? Nah It dont happen... They just get cuter each day as more and more of thier personality reveals itself. It concerns me that I keep reading about adoptions going sour and the ferts being passed out to anyone who will take them. When I adopted Bubbles from West Wales Ferret Welfare, I signed a contract that binds me to several obligations, Including that IF I can no longer care for my baby boy (that would need something like total paralysis to happen) I am obligated to notify WWFW so that he may be rehomed by them. I have a loose leaf Binder here that is my "ferret bible" the contract is the first thing you see when it is opened, along with a medical record form I printed out. I wasnt totally sure what I was getting into with a ferret in the place... but I went into it with my eyes wide open.. and yes learning has been fun, and I still have so much to learn. and anyhow ALL pets take time.. that is the nature of pet ownership, its like saying having a bath uses water.. what is wrong with these people? IMHO, the people who adopted these two babies are probably "serial pet dumpers" A friend of mine who was involved in cat rescue once said she believed that it was a form of immaturity usually found in small children and shown by the way that toys become "last weeks news". It is a shame that there are no ways of detecting this prior to adoption. But I wonder If ALL shelters have reviewed thier adoption paperwork to ensure that this obligation is contained. Also would a cooling off period be appropriate for "non ferret people" (i.e. those propective adopters not already known to the shelter) Much has been said here in recent months about shelter depression and bonding, and I would guess that being shipped here and there with different people every few weeks is confusing and depressing for the fuzzies involved. (this assumes that they were adopted from a shelter) Right now, I have arrived at the conclusion that this place can take another fuzzbutt and that Bubbles life would be happier if he had another fuzz around him for company, mischief, and play (cats are real cowards !! lol), There could be a homeless Fuzz out there somewhere that I can help to have a happier life. Ulrike at WWFW is "keeping me in mind" in case another homeless fuzzy adult comes up, and if Bubbles and I are lucky enough to have this happen, I will sign again with a clear conscience, knowing that barring some personal catastrophy with my health involving basic mobility I am committing myself to the fukidz to provide a loving stable home, good nutrition plenty of playtimes and free range access, and medical care whenever needed FOR THIER REMAINING LIFETIME (and that will be way to short for me). I guess this sort of thing comes down to screening as thorougly as possible. Part of the adoption contract gives WWFW the right to call round to see Bubbles at home, but it may be that I take him over there if another fuzzy "comes up" for a meet on more neutral territory, that way we can see if they get along ok and Ulrike can see for herself how he is making out with me. Donna, those li'l furkidz got lucky .... they met up with you.... My guess is they have a nice clean place to live, lots of playties out and about, and are now (at last) properly cared for.I hope that others in the same position are also as lucky. This is not a flame directd at anyone... just an expression of my disgust with some parts of society who treat other lives as if just mere entertainment . Cris Page ....owned by ... Bubbles..... (" where dat cat at ? I wanna plaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay") and the crew [Posted in FML issue 3111]