What do you do when you see one or more ferrets in an abusive or extremely neglectful situation? A. Hide the ferret(s) in your jacket or purse and get out as soon as possible. B. Convince the owner to turn the ferret(s) over to you, clean them up, feed them, and then take them to the vet at your own expense. C. Contact the authorities and return with a camera, animal control, humane or police officer, or veterinarian to witness and document the conditions. Then work with the authorities to assure the animals are properly provided for. The correct answer is C, much as we emotionally want to do A or B. The first two choices may be the fastest, surest way to get help for the ferrets, but the entire burden of caring for them will fall squarely on the rescuer and the ferret community. As we know from recent history, this can be pretty expensive. Just as bad is that the chance of successfully prosecuting those responsible is severely diminished. If a person is not punished for their mistakes, they tend to repeat them--sadly, we have seen this, too. Note there are some situations where A or B might be the appropriate action. But consider your options and the ramifications of your actions carefully before choosing. The ferret community cannot afford to foot the entire bill for these large rescues, especially if it continues to happen once or twice a year. The only way we can avoid this is by choosing option C. Doing this works best if there are some things already in place. Having a prior working relationship with the authorities is extremely important. Knowing the laws in your state/county/municipality with regard to animal abuse and neglect is also paramount. THESE THINGS MUST BE DONE *NOW*, BEFORE THE ABUSIVE SITUATIONS ARISE. If you run a shelter or a club, contact your local humane societies and animal control offices NOW. Let them know you can assist with ferret rescue and care. Establish a friendly and supportive relationship. Find out about your local laws NOW. If they are weak, learn how to change them! I'd like to thank Troy Lynn Eckart, Danee Devore, Alicia Drakiotes and Sukie Crandall for their insights on these issues that helped me write this post. Linda Iroff [Posted in FML issue 3925]