Dear Cathy, I cannot tell you how pleased I am that the four ferrets were able to find themselves into the fine home of Diane Iverson. Many of us were involved in this networking. I am glad to have been a part of it. The most powerful of this post is that you found the joy of placement; Remember this feeling and recall it often. Diane Iverson is a wonderful person, and there are more Diane's out there, with open hearts and homes. There are folks that are wonderful, responsible people out there willing to love abandoned ferrets; Your care alone is not the sole answer. Diane is answering that call tonight and answering it well by all accounts. The FMLers don't know that myself and other shelter directors have offered our help, in many months past, in offering to teach you how to adopt. I have offered all of my interview and adoption forms to you. You ignored these offers. This offer still stands. I promise to do anything I can to help you transition from being a non-adoptive facility, to pro-adoption. Also, when you adopt, you partially fulfill your 501(c)3 comittment to be an educating entity to the public. They not only adopt a ferret, they get you and your knowledge!!!!! Cathy, pro-adoption is wonderful. You just met Diane Iverson in placing ferrets with her. You have the power to interview and place the rest of, and future ferrets with also great homes. You have my support in this venture!!! Let me know if there is anything I can do to assist you in setting up your adoption criteria. No doubt, here on the FML, all pro-adoption shelters will be more than glad to support you in your transition. Congratulations on being able to give. I know Diane Iverson and this adoption is wonderful. Don't be afraid to adopt, just learn the skills and get a level of confidence. 99% of the time your instincts will guide you correctly. Are there any FMLers out there that have adopted from ferret shelters? That have successfully adopted abused and neglected ferrets? I think it's important to let Cathy know how adoption has benefitted your lives, and most of all, the ferrets you have adopted. Let's hear from those of you who have adopted neglected/abused ferrets that have gone on to live, love and be happy. Cathy needs to hear these true stories. I understand her fears, I am sure we all can. Barb Clay [Posted in FML issue 4031]