As the Eve of Christmas surrounds us we at Ferret Wise are ever thankful: for: the email server that is working tonight! the MANY shelter friends who have shared time, thoughts, and helping hands this year the SANTAS who have surprised the Giving Tree kids this year the donated gift cards and certificates which have provided an abundance of kibble for our shelter kids the health we have been able to provide for the 62 ferrets which arrived from police & ac investigators in 2004 the strength and dedication of our hospice caretakers which allow us to provide quality care for the old and ill ferrets in our care the patient, skilled and dedicated veterinarians who care for our residents the loving families who have provided good homes through adoption & foster care for our kids the wonderful folks who attended Ferretstock V this year and it's sponsors theferretstore.com & LP Sound Explosion the dedicated Foster grandparents who aid us in providing required care & meds with their donations the Bears' fund contributors who help provide the shelter space and essentials to care for our charges the varied education opportunities afforded Ferret Wise in 2004 on behalf of ferrets the ability to publish 4 quarterly issues of sound information & education for ferret families the opportunity to work with Best Friends Sanctuary's website to provide sound ferret information the donated supplies and food from Performance Foods and from shelter friends this year the wonderful folks who have supported our programs through eBay purchases the dedication of our directors who take time from their busy lives to help keep Ferret Wise alive and responsive to ferret needs the ferret shelter community and exchange of information and support to help better the lives of all ferrets the SOS organization and it's dedication to ferret emergencies and assistance to rescues & shelters the FML and it's wonderful moderator BIG which keeps information flowing to better life for ferrets the opportunity to love and care for wonderful little souls in need.. and accept their time as a gift and a lesson. Ferret Wise Shelter was open for operation EXACTLY 10 years ago. On Christmas eve 1994 - not yet licensed we began with 24 little charges who had no place to go. Within 3 months the number grew to 67 and then 102. Tonight, ten years later we begin a new era at Ferret Wise - focused more on education with the hope less ferrets will be in need of shelter services. Our residents remain, older and all special needs faces.. and receive the best care we can give.. and our hope is to see days when: the US Humane shelter community will embrace these special animals and recognize them as companions- affording them due care the day when Pet stores cease mass distribution of these special pets which are altered far too young compounding health issues the veterinary community implements greater schooling for incoming veterinarians on the domesticated ferret the day when people stay committed to their pets rather than discard them for the sake of convenience. With your continued support we will continue to make strides - to make a difference for ferrets everywhere. God Bless you one & all Have the Happiest of Holidays! Alicia , shelter Mom & founder www.ferretwise.org [Posted in FML issue 4737]