Before I got ferrets my Dad thought I was crazy and considered them scary rodents. He was quickly won over by their playful personalities and helps on weekends when I go away. But he isn't into the effort and cost of veterinary medicine, and thinks I do too much for them and should just let them be. Jillie had an emergency day Friday and I took the day off and got her to the vet. I talked to my Dad that morning and he said with disapproval "I don't know how you afford it". But he understands how I feel and said no more. That afternoon he called to see how it went. When I explained that Jillie may have developed a gastric ulcer he was shocked and asked how do they develop that (I'm sure he was wondering what kind of stress she could be under!) I hadn't answered and after he thought for a quiet moment he said "do you think they need another ferret?!" I thought that was great! He thinks Jillie is stressed because she doesn't have enough ferret buddies in her business!!! I have three, maybe they do need another (-; Risa [Posted in FML issue 4985]