Well, after almost a year of not bringing anyone new home (unless you count the dog, of course) it was bound to happen! I volunteer at the GCFA shelter every Tuesday night (since December of last year, I can't believe I held out so long). On July 25th I decided to bring a two-year-old MF boy named Joe home with me for a "visit" (yah right). He had just lost his cagemate Jack the Saturday before. This was his second time in the shelter, the guy who adopted him had to bring him back due to allergies. Joey was very lethargic and when let out for playtime he wouldn't even play with the toys or me, he just layed there. After a week of visiting, we have decided to adopt him. Please welcome Joey to the brat pack, including his new brothers and sisters, Miya, Nina, Rascal, and Jack, along with Koty the doggie. He is a very welcome (and plump! <g>) addition to our growing family! On a much sadder note, I had to say good-bye to my mom's doggie, Mitzi, yesterday. She would have been turning 13 on 8/30. She was a cocker spaniel/poodle mix that we've had since I was 8 years old. She developed mammory tumors (from never being spayed) and soon the cancer spread to her lungs so she has recently been having difficulty breathing. My mom has been faced with the much dreaded decision to have her put down. I told her when Mitzi stops eating and her quality of life is not as good as it once was, that it was time to let go. So today (Friday) at 3:30 she is bringing her to the vet to help her to the bridge. Sandee, if you could, I know she's a doggie but she already has a human waiting for her. Look up my dad Mike - I'm sure he'll be with his two cats and dog from earlier years - I've told Mitzi all about you and the bridge and how she won't have trouble walking or breathing anymore, that she'll be as good as new again and my dad will be there to greet her. This is the first time I've had to deal with a pet dying - so even though it's not a ferret or technically my dog anymore I still felt the need to share. Thanks everyone for all their support and information every day - you guys are heaven sent! ;O) Lots of love to those with sick, injured, or angeled furkids. 2 weeks until Miya's exploratory surgery - please keep your fingers (and paws) crossed! *dooks* Amy & the brat pack === Visit Miya, Nina, Rascal, Jack, Joey, and Koty (along w/ Jason & Amy) @ their website: http://www.geocities.com/petsburgh/park/9394 Stay tuned for pics of Joey! [Posted in FML issue 3134]