The very first girl ferret I ever got is Socks, who has outlived her cagemate Sam and many, MANY others. She has never had any problems except needing her teeth cleaned. She is getting old, maybe 8+, and sometimes forgets where she is suppose to poop, not unusual with the many "oldies" I've had through the years, but recently things were different. She would just walk around and loose poop would fall out of her like she couldn't control it. Exactly like the other FML ferret mom said was wrong with her ferret. I looked in Sock's mouth and found an ulcer. I have dealt with ulcers many times but not with sweet Socks! I immediately called Chris Mathis for advice. Chris answers the phone like she always does when I call...."Hi, Nancy...what's up?".... knowing I have a problem. First thing she tells me is not to "stress", that it wasn't my fault, and then proceeds to tell me the meds old Socks needs and the dosage. She also reminds me of Sock's age and that things may be just breaking down and therefore the ulcer. While she's talking with me I can hear cages being cleaned and ferrety noises. I don't think she ever rests. I cannot say enough about this wonderful ferret mom. Chris and her husband Dave drove 6 hours to attend my husband's memorial service, slept a few hours then went right back to running the ferret shelter, after driving 6 hours back home the next morning. After the service Chris picked up dishes, packed up food and help haul it back to my house. Never resting for a second. While at my house she gave each ferret a quick once over and each of my 5 teenage daughters a big hug, brushing away some tears. Chris and her husband are VERY special people who have devoted their lives, their home and their personal savings to ferrets. Please everyone, support this wonderful ferret mom and dad in their time of need! Nancy, wishing she lived closer so she could clean cages, clip nails, medicate ferrets, etc, etc, etc........ [Posted in FML 7205]