First, I want to apologise for not being on the board very much lately. I have been extremely busy with taking care of ferrets to the point of personal exhaustion. Several months ago, I had to take in a number of ferrets due to their owner needing hospitalization. After he got out, he had no place to go, so I offered him a room so he could still be with his ferrets. I was under the impression that he was a good man in an unfortunate situation that loved and took good care of his ferrets. Over the course of several weeks, it became apparent that this was not necessarily so and I had no recourse but to make him leave. When he had a place to stay he came and got most of his ferrets, leaving behind a couple that needed surgery. He also left behind the legacy of ferrets not cared for, an assortment of illnesses and problems bagan to surface among my Shelter ferrets. Now, due to frequent vet visits, surgeries and an ongoing health problem in my whole extended business, I can no longer take in rescues or adopt any out for at least a month. On top of that, the vet bill has climbed to $1000 and unless I am able to pay it down some, they will not allow me to bring any more of my ferrets to them. This all has taken quite a toll on me, physically and financially. Due to an incident last year that included false rumors and my almost losing my shelter, help and donations have dried up. I've been coping with all this by myself for some time. I want those that have helped with donations to know that I really appreciate it. I also appreciate the food donations. Now, I am in a position I hoped to never be in; I am asking anyone willing to donate a dollar or two to help pay down the vet bill to please feel free to do so. It really hurts and bothers me to be begging like this, but I see no other option, things have become desperate. Also, is there anyone willing to put together a support raffle for my shelter? I'm only one person and have no volunteers to help. if you can help out you can go to www.ferretadocacynetwork.org or if you wish to send a check or money order you can contoct Barb my partner and treasurer at [log in to unmask] Anything would be appreciated. I am so sorry for having to ask this and Thank you. Susan Northwest Arkansas Ferret Rescue Shelter [Posted in FML 5912]