Sukie, you are so right about saving when ferret math strikes! I got my 1st ferret in May 2004 and now I have 6. I met Claudia and Dee from the Oxford Ferret Rescue at the end of May 2004. I had read many books and been to many web sites about ferrets before getting my 1st boy Sammy so I was reasonably prepared for the task of taking care of my ferrets (of course they still surprise me!). One of the 1st things Claudia told me was to start a savings account for my ferrets because most of them will need at least 1 major surgery in their lives (maybe more) and will probably require alot of vet care towards the end of their lives. So every month since last June I have saved between $100-150 and have about $1300 so far saved to take care of my boys. I do not use this money for their regular vet visits for shots etc but it is there for the major things when they get old. I have told my husband and daughters where the money is and what it is for so if something happens to me the boys will be taken care of. When I am in stores with ferrets and people ask me questions about them the 1st thing I tell them is that they are VERY expensive to own because of some major medical conditions they get. I also let them know they are not cage animals (which many people believe!!!). I try to discourage the 1st time buyer that is buying just because they are so"cute"! I do tell them they are wonderful pets but not for everyone. And I also mention our local shelter, the Oxford Ferret Rescue. I encourage everyone to adopt from a shelter and I try to give as many pointers as possible to those who do buy a ferret. I do also believe that ferret people are the best people ever! They truely love their ferrets and will do almost anything to help them live longer and healthier lives! And they are so willing to share knowledge and to help each other whenever they can. This list is an example. The work BIG puts into this list to amazing to me! We are so lucky to have this list and everyone on it. The FHL is also a great resource for all of us. I feel so lucky the day my Sammy came into my life not only because of the joy he and all his brothers bring to me but of all the wonderful people I have met since getting my boys! I do feel truely blessed! Lisa [Posted in FML issue 4867]