There is no handbook given to those that take in surrendered ferrets or rescue them. For the most part, there are no laws regulating in-home ferret shelters, and as a result, there are hundreds of independent shelters/rescues/sanctuaries serving the community throughout the nation and Canada. Of course, this varies from state to state, and then the locales within the states. So for the most part, there is no direction or format for ferret sheltering. Have you ever wondered what was expected of you, once you decide to take in surrendered/rescued ferrets? Could you use some advice, or, would you like to share your experience and help the shelter community grow more knowledgeable and effective? On the Ferret Shelter Council Forum http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/Ferret-Shelter_Council/ , for the next few weeks we are welcoming discussions on the following topics: "Aleutian's Disease Virus - Which Test and Why?" "Minimal Standard of Care" With input from the shelters that have existed for many years, as well as those that are recently new, we hope to have a positive influence with the way shelters are operated, and as a result, what we can expect from your service to the community. In times of emergency and urgent need, we turn to the shelter closest to the problem for support. Regardless of size, in an emergency your shelter can help make a difference. This discussion is meant to enlighten, educate and influence. These current topics being discussed are timely, and we welcome any shelter/rescue/sanctuary of any size to come and participate. This way we can help each other and establish an otherwise non-existent comaraderie between the support entities. So with that said, regardless of whether you are caring for 5 or 50 ferrets, come share the experience of this forum and what it's offering. We look forward to seeing you there! Affectionately, Barb Clay Dir of Shelter Affairs for Rocky's Ferret Council Member Parkton, Md. 21120 www.rockysferrets.com [Posted in FML 5912]