While not truly ferret oriented I did want all to be aware of this as many on this list are involved with other companion animals and animal welfare, thought all should be aware of this appalling situation. Also to say that I reviewed the list and as of this evening there are no ferrets or other mustelids listed. The primary need right now - other than to alert the animal loving community - is for people/places willing to give santuary to some hoofed animals, and funds for the auction. Donations for the auction close at 10am - but after that most likely funds will be needed for transport/vet care etc. depending on how many animals the coalition can save. It's easy to join the yahoo group list to stay posted or to offer help. Best Friends is doing a major share of the coordination. Posted with permission: --------------- "I don't normally ask /my own contacts/ to donate to anything, and haven't as a rule used any e-mail addresses in my possession for anything other than announcements and passing along of links to electronic petitions, so I hope you'll forgive me this one time, and help however you can...whether it's financially or helping to pass this e-mail on to animal lovers you know. This is something in our own backyard (practically), and it's galling to animal rescue and welfare organizations nationwide. Catskill Game Farm is closing its doors and putting all its holdings -- including animals -- up for auction Oct. 18. These kinds of closing-our-doors auctions are typically bad news for animals of any species. Having tried every avenue imaginable, Best Friends and a new coalition have only one remaining option -- outbid at the auction tomorrow. You can read more at: http://network.bestfriends.org/newyork/news/8418.html. Any money donated gives them just that much more to work with tomorrow. The Critter Connection is one of a group of rescues, sanctuaries, and private individuals that have stepped up to say they'll help take in some of the 40-50 guinea pigs that were just added to the auction list. (See http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/CoalitionforCGFAnimals/message/121 for more information.) We're already full, but we can't walk away from this. This is an ugly and unfortunate situation that is unbecoming of the original intent of the Catskill Game Farm. Whoever can be saved of the Farm's animals will be a victory. Thanks for reading. Whitney ----------------- And yes, as a privately held business, sadly they can do this....though there are some folks looking to see if they are selling any endangered animals.... Ann Gruden Ferret Assn of CT [Moderator's note: I was there last week to check out the place. Some of the more exotic animals appear to have had already been sold. While the little domestic/domesticated animals seemed to be well-housed and in decent condition, the fewer exotic animals were probably inadequately housed. A poor pacing bobcat in a way too small enclosure is a good example of a bad situation. Last I heard there will be Humane Society and some government oversight of the auction, but I am rather skeptical. And there are a LOT of animals! As in over 2000, maybe even 3000. BIG] [Posted in FML 5399]