Hey all I am terrible at trying to figure out things on the computer. But if you google Zoos Strobach, you will see that one of the shelters falsely accused of hoarding is in yet another positive news article. This one is Ferrets USA. The sanctuary and its operator are listed first in this Who's Who article. Some years ago, I rescued 2 elderly ferrets. I had NO idea just how ill they were, though it was obvious that one was adrenal. Both excreted very oderous slime/lime within a few days of arriving. I had just been patting myself on the back for being so good at caring for these two. I was souping with syringes, took them immediately to a vets, etc. I was not such a blessing after all, though I did bring both home. This bonded pair had been seperated in cages the size of a hampster cage. Mystic and Bongo were their names. Mystic, the tiny white one, did not make it, despite round the clock care at the sanctuary. Bongo ended up needing multiple surgeries. I paid for them, the meds, the soups, and beyond. But what is the true value of a life saved? Bongo tried coming home with me, but ended up with still another sudden growth. After surgery, he required soakings, and fluids, and wrappings. And then there was yet another surgery. I don't remember how many he needed. He was such a character...such a crusty old man. He kept trying. So we kept trying. His naked bloated body grew the most beautiful coat. His old legs toddled merrily around the cozy and large sanctuary play room. He found buddies that crawled over him on the floor...two old geezers sniffing butts in contentment. He enjoyed that simple interaction. A gentle meeting, sleepy sacks and baby blankets, and toys, and room, and baby food and love filled his remaining months on this earth.+ Mystic and Bongo: I remember them today.And I recall the hours and months of struggle a shelter mom endured for the love of ferrets. Even after death..I came to pay respects to Mystic. Her tiny white body had been placed as though in sleep in a ferret bed for us to honor. And Bongo? He lived on and on with his multiple meds...still wishing to investigate the mess of boxes and crinkle papers and rugs and treats Aunt Lisette always brought. He looked far more healthy and much younger when he passed in his sleep than he did the day I brought him home. Merry Christmas little ones. Merry Christmas Cathy. Lisette [Posted in FML 6923]