Just thought I would address your concerns as they are very similar to my first ferret experience. I first came in contact with Wheezer when I was a senior in high school. A friend of mind had taken her in from someone else but couldn't keep her. I took her in and had a rough time keeping up with her. This was before there was a "ferrets for dummies" or FML for that matter. I was in the various bands (Trumpets Rule!), I had a part-time job and a new girlfriend. So I spent very little time with her, mostly in the evenings; not nearly as much as I should have. As is usually the case, she developed complications and soon left me because there were no vets in the area who were ferret knowledgeable. You sound very responsible for one so young, so far be it from me to discourage you from setting out on the path to ferretdom. But keep a few things in mind: 1) It's almost like having a child. They require a lot of attention and care. 2) Since there are few vets around who specialize in ferrets it may be expensive just for check ups. Also, it is an unfortunate fact that they tend to develop costly illnesses. 3) You are only 15, so your life is just starting to roll. When you get your first car and get driving, you'll never be at home! And you never know when that new high school sweetheart will come along and draw a lot of your attention. If your heart is set, then here's a little advise I can offer: 1) It sounds like you live at home with your mother and visit your father on a regular basis. get them to back you up and support your decision. If you educate then with the same fervor you have done to research the care of ferrets, then they should be ok for short term care when you are away. 2) Have a place at both locations that allow your fuzzies plenty of safe room to play. I used my bedroom which was easy to block off. 3) Find a ferret knowledgeable vet before you bring home the new ones. 4) How much time. I usually let mine run and play until they start crashing and sleeping, which is usually about two hours. 5) Finally, always, always ask questions! If something is going on that you don't understand, call your vet or write to the FML. It's a big commitment so be prepared. Good luck. James, Melissa, Kassidy & Jasmine Loving: Bebe, Riley Missing: Wheezer, Pym, Rikki, Jako [Posted in FML issue 4252]