I was going to post something funny yesterday, but I have literally been through hell with my little (3.5 lb.)boy, Dopey. Last week, I posted that my vet had to re-descent my little Cleo because he did not go far enough into the muscle to remove all of the scent gland (this is not the correct terminology, but I don't want to type more than necessary). Cleo is fine, but then I realized that Dopey was still poofing even though it had been a month since his surgery. Back to the vet we go... Dopey had his "corrective" surgery yesterday and I picked him up and brought him home. He was still groggy from the anesthetic but ok and his rear looked fine. He went to sleep and I decided to check on him about an hour later. Low and behold, a pool of blood, and blood literally squirting out from his stitches. I freaked out and called the vet to arrange an emergencey visit (this was at 7:15, they close at 7:00 so I was fortunate he was still there). We rushed Dopey in, and I was told that the area where the gland had been removed, had an enlarged hematoma (sp?) and that the pressure had built up so that the blood started seeping out his sutures. His heartbeat was normal and gums were normal color, so the vet told me he would keep him overnight and put him on ice packs (this I would like to see) and monitor him. He also gave him some Prednisone for the swelling. Needless to say - NO SLEEP FOR ME! We picked Dopey up this morning, and he looks so awful! His entire rear is swollen and badly bruised (looks like a truck hit him). I was told that he would probably sleep alot for the next couple of days. He is on the feline A/D wet diet until he is "in the clear" for bowel movements. I feel absolutely terrible about this and I am very upset that two surgeries were necessary for both of my ferrets. Keep in mind that this vet has performed many descents and several adrenalectomys. He is the most ferret-knowledgeable vet I have dealt with in Washington (that number includes four others). I am freaking out over this and fear that Dopey will never be the same and that he is "damaged" internally. Yes, this is my fault, I NEVER should have had this done to him and it probably would have been better to just find another home for him where the spouse is more tolerant of ferret poofing. I AM TAKING FULL RESPONSIBILITY for this. I have been crying all day over this decision and what I have caused my little guy, who is so sweet. I will never forgive myself for this. I like my vet, he is very caring and I "grilled him" over ferret stuff - he knows it well. This was simply a mistake and he freely admits to it. He has not charged me for any of this extended care and visits. He has apologized profusely and has stated that he hopes this does not change my opinion of his abilities. Now, one of the ferret vets that was recommended to me by several people, made a major mistake and almost cost my first ferret its life. She had a very big ego and would not apologize or admit any wrong-doing and actually told me that she would help out but that I would still have to pay for the care. Herein lies the difference between a good vet and a bad vet. Good vets can admit a mistake and do their best to fix it, plus offer some compassion. As for my husband, he thinks I should find another vet. What are your opinions on this and has anyone gone through a similar dilemma? If Dr. Williams could also address what has happened to my little Dopey, I would appreciate the feedback and please let me know if prednisone and amox are a good combination for treatment. Also, is A/D good enough for the next couple days or should I try to make some gravy? I am very upset and concerned. I am at fault, I feel guilty and terrible. Please be kind. This was the biggest mistake I have made regarding ferrets. Descenting should NEVER be done unless there is an impaction or medical necessity. Ferrets smell, and that is the trade off to having the privledge of their company. I realize it, my husband also sees the light and I have never seen him move as fast as he did last night. He was practically crying at the vet's office. To Troy Lynn: I cannot tell you how sorry I am at the passing of Dezzie. You are such an asset to the ferret community and do so much for these animals. In my opinion, two hours would not have made much difference, it was Dezzie's time to go. You did not cause this. Dezzie had an excellent life with you just as so many ferrets have. Please, take care in knowing this. I appreciate all the support you provide to others, and your excellent knowledge. The articles you write for ferrets magazine are so informative. By the way, if you have not picked up the Jan/Feb issue of Ferrets, it is a good one. The ferret photo contest has some really adorable pictures submitted by some FML members. I very much enjoyed these. Well, my weekend is in the "crapper" and all I can do is monitor my little boy to make sure he is as comfortable as possible. Why? Why? Why? Thanks everyone for listening. Thank you Dr. Williams for all of your great medical knowledge - a true blessing to all of us. I wish you lived in my state. [Posted in FML issue 3269]