>From: Especially Ferrets <[log in to unmask]> >Subject: See what some of us have to deal with! > This is the question sent to my e-mail: >How long is the lifespan of a ferret & does it have saliva glands, or will >it die without water? > >This is my answer to this persons question: >I guess a smart ass question gets a smart ass answer....you need to water >the dirt in your brain cavity, >Ferretguy > >Would any of you answered this different and how? Yes. I would have answered differently. First, as a point of distinction: uneducated and :smart ass" are not synonymous. I find it hard to swallow that this question was asked of you out of any form of malice or mischief. I think that the person was probably just asking an honest question that they wanted to know the answer to, as obvious as it may seem to the rest of us. If someone want to put yourself out there as a resource for people who want to learn more about ferrets, they need to face some simple facts: (1) Public information about ferrets is very limited. Many people wouldn't know a ferret if they saw one. (2) They are going to receive a lot of very intelligent questions about ferrets. Because of (1), however, they are going to receive some downright stupid questions, too (no such thing as a stupid question... only a stupid person asking it?) If someone feels the need to put themselves in that role as resource, then they must promote a positive image of ferrets. In order to do that, they must also promote a positive image of ferret-owners (themself). Answering honest questions with "smart ass" answers will not accomplish that end. The asker will most likely end any intellectual/educational association with ferrets that very instant. The point: just answer questions. Do not tease -- TEACH! Perhaps you will encourage the person to continue to learn and next time -- just maybe -- they will come back with a more intelligent question. -- Andy and the four Sock Pirates Cody ("I just want to snuggle.") Tripod Bob ("Look out everyone! I'm gonna kick -- well, knee -- your butt!") Ifdaschuwitz "Witzy" ("I'm no scared of you no more, Bob. . .") Oscar ("Can't we all just get along?") . . . missing our little Lily-doodle. . . . . . with Fossa and Socrates waiting at the Bridge. . . [Posted in FML issue 3391]