This will be a two part post, too lengthy to post in one. [Combined into one. BIG] Once again I find myself answering to the mysterious anon poster. There is a line, ( a great big thick one) that separates collectors from rescues. As much as BIG tries to keep the peace, I feel this post was most definitely accusatory in nature. Considering the source however, I'm not surprised. First, these insinuations are not based on any fact whatsoever. Those of you that have done your homework and researched my postings on the FML will find the truth about my rescue efforts; that includes the positive and the negative. If you ask me, the red flag should be raised and waved frantically when you hear NOTHING negative about a shelter . Incidentally, I would like to know why it disqualifies me as a shelter because I was considering moving from the country. This was a remark made by "Sirron" regarding a former post. My rescue effort existed for a year prior to the problems I had last summer. Yes, I moved to a TEMPORARY situation last year (renting) to escape a bad relationship. One of my ex's issues at the time was the fact that I was doing rescue and I refused to stop because he did not approve. I moved in with some friends temporarily. There was nothing specific in their lease about ferrets, so they agreed that they could move in as well. The situation did not work out and ended with my so called friend making a stink to their landlord about the ferrets, thus having everyone tossed from the house. I returned to my home, which I OWN, not rent and my ex-S.O.found an apartment. Everything worked out for the best for myself and the ferrets. Yes, I was considering moving out of the country and it would have been way too stressful on the kids to take them with me. My reasons for considering this move are personal and will not be subject to debate on this or any other forum. It would be irresponsible, to say the least to take on the responsibilities of an animal rescue living in a renting situation. Do I adopt ferrets out? Yes I do, but only when it benefits the ferrets. Additionally, the initial placement is temporary for 90 days and is finalized only if everything is working out. It is my opinion that ferrets have very fragile personalities and not all adapt well to new environments and people. Many of the ferrets that come to me have special situations and remain permanent residents because it is in their best interests. That does not make me a collector and above all, I DO NOT BREED FERRETS or any animal because I believe that too is incredibly irresponsible and defeatist to the rescue cause. Additionally, I only keep a number of ferrets that I can manage by myself. By manage I mean that I have the time to give them the quality of life they deserve with plenty of play time and love. My kids DO NOT spend day after day in a cage. Because I don't enlist the help of volunteers, does this disqualify me as a rescue? Does it make my effort less because I am not a "big name" in the ferret community? I choose to stay out of the politics of rescues. That's not what it's all about. No, my rescue is not open for anyone to randomly walk in and judge the operation. Can I give references on how my operation is run? Of course I can, although it may not be from volunteers as some people seem to be looking for. I am very fortunate that I received enough help to get me through this trying time from generous ferret folks that know my efforts are sincere. Many of you are also aware that even though I myself do rescue, I also help out other rescues in need when I can. What exactly is the difference between a rescue and shelter anyway? It seems to me that all of this terminology has been invented as we go along to make everything politically correct. If I am wrong, I welcome correction. Because I don't have a number with Uncle Sam or I am not registered as 501c3 does this mean I don't rescue and help ferrets? Of course not. For anyone that questions my efforts, here is the history. I've had animals all my life. Growing up, our house was a haven for unwanted animals until homes could be found. I also have experience with wildlife. One month after we bought our house, we bought two pet ferrets. Freed them actually, from a bad pet store situation. It was not long before I learned that there were more ferrets needing help than there were hands and hearts to help them. I also learned that ferrets being given away were possible targets for those people with large snakes to feed. This was all of the inspiration I needed to make room for these needy furkids. Before I am accused of "hiding " anything else, I will let you know that I also have reptiles, and that includes two snakes. One of these was rescued from the breeder who was going to give him the flush because of a kink in his neck. The ferrets in my rescue have come in for a variety of reasons. Mostly unwanted by the owner and some whose number was up at the S.P.C.A. I also have foster ferrets. These are ferrets that were considered unadoptable by a shelter due to illness and came to me to live out their days with the quality of time, love and medical treatment that they deserve, illness or not. I am also working with a sweet little deaf girl who has overcome a nasty biting habit and is gradually learning sign language. This has been a learning experience for both of us. I, myself am constantly disgusted by those "shelters" that are involved in rescue for nothing but personal gain and notoriety, padding their own pockets with the donations they receive. Call me na=EFve, but I have always thought the best of people involved in animal rescue and never thought I would see this kind of behavior along with the back stabbing that goes on. Particularly in the state of MD. The ferrets are the ones that are hurt in the end and it's disgraceful. I have no problem answering legitimate questions by people that don't hide behind the anonymous post. Incidentally, this alone raises red flags with me and I would question your ethics since you refuse to identify yourself. Kim and da fuzzbutts at Somethin Up My Sleeve Rescue & Respit ,',', __ \ `'`,/ \ ()o=; `'`','`/ . \/ / ( / \" / \(_ \(_ ferrets may nip, but people just suck. [Posted in FML issue 3685]