Sue, each shelter`s situation is different. Needs can shift, over time. A year ago, nearly every piece of bedding here was threadbare. The only stuff still in good shape, was Diane Iverson`s blanky hammies (and they wear like iron!!!) When we were blessed enough to receive a sizeable donation, we put in a massive order with Rose German (who did a terriffic job!) and I also began to sew a bit, replacing some items, piece by piece. At this point, we are golden with bedding. We have even sent some to help other shelters! Some shelter ops are able to craft their own bedding, or have a volunteer who does it well. Others have a GREAT need for bedding--and bedding would be the perfect gift. Whether the shelter is feeding 17 or 70, quality food is always a must. Many Santas don`t know that shelters get a discount on their purchases -- so if you power up a food account by $5 or $10, or send a Ferret Depot gift card to the shelter, your money will go further, when the shelter op redeems it. To some, this may seem cold & impersonal, but in this economy, it just makes sense, somehow...Wouldn`t you want to give more "bang for your bucks" to the ferret(s) ??? We are friends with shelters all over the United States, and a common woe right now, is the vet bill. I posted quite recently, myself, about the influx of older, ill, ferrets, and several requiring immediate emergency surgery. We are not alone. I saw a post here, only yesterday, where a shelter mom was asking for help with the vet bills. By powering up a food account, or sending a few dollars to the vet, or sending a Ferret Depot gift card etc. you will be certain that your gift went TO THE FUZZY(s). Of course, the ideal gift would be some "hands-on" help with some of the daily, nasty, back-breaking chores we all do---but we all realize most of you live too far away for that :( It might be wise to check with the shelter you choose to help, and ask what they need the most. Needs will vary among shelters--and needs will shift, with time. Just ask the shelter mom or dad what they need most for their little ones. THEN--- This Christmas, because of you, a little fuzzy somewhere will be snuggling down in its warm, cozy bedding, if that was the need. Will be happily crunching on its kibble, or its Christmas mouse, if that was the need. Will receive a life-saving surgery, if that was the need. Will be batting its new Christmas toy across the floor--or quietly lapping up Carnivore Care. WHATEVER the need is---you can make a difference---even from Australia. Bless you for helping the fuzzies! Love, Zoo [Posted in FML 6507]