I am writing this on behalf of Tinyprints Ferret Rescue. A most unfortunate change has been thrust upon the shelter, one that will most likely lead to its end. The veterinary hospital that the shelter has always used has decided that it will no longer allow a tab to run for services rendered. The hospital is demanding 50% of the balance by the 10th of April, with payments to pay off the remainder. Until the balance is $0 (account balance is $4092.32 right now) they WILL NOT provide services that are not dire emergencies, and any services provided must be paid for immediately, 100%. (The shelter received a call today saying that they could not attend the monthly lupron clinic because that was not considered an emergency.) Tinyprints is a family owned shelter, they do not run shows or have corporate sponsors or financial backing. The director, Marguerite, works diligently to sell things on ebay to pay the bills for the shelter. She sews, crochets and does whatever it takes to earn the money. There is no nest egg with this family, they have all given up extras to save the ferrets that come through their door. And in the 2 1/2 years that their doors have been opened they have found over 150 ferrets new homes. There have been countless ferrets that have come in neglected, abused and frightened. It is heart wrenching. But the compassion and understanding and love they are shown once through the door is absolutely amazing. The changes in the lives of these ferrets are astounding. Till they reach their new mommies/daddies they are loving and happy.....and healthy. It angers me more than I can convey that a greedy vet hospital is going to cause this to end. I am not asking for your money outright, I am asking that you all please take a couple of minutes out of your day to look at the items listed on ebay that benefit this shelter. There are wonderful appliqu=E9d ferret items such as shirts, towels, pot holders and pillow shams. These are unique and any ferret lover would enjoy them. There are many medical supplies that are great to have on hand. Mother's day is only a month away, perhaps you may find a great gift item and help the shelter at the same time. Any little purchase is appreciated. There are still 36 ferrets at the shelter that need to eat and poop (litter costs) while this vet demands his money. Here is the link to the auctions, please, please take a moment to help. Thank you so very much. http://stores.ebay.com/Aloha-Ferrets-Store Caryn [Posted in FML issue 5205]