I'm a few days late on piggy backing some thoughts on the e-mail about the value of SOS (support Our Shelters), but I wanted to be sure my information was accurate. There are some very grand and selfless ferret lovers out there who are the main push behind Support Our Shelters. They run a very professional organization, which helps many, many ferrets across the country. In my opinion, if ferrets are being helped so are the humans who stand with those ferrets. This is definitely a good thing! Kudos to those folks!! I am on a mission to spread the word to shelter operators, ferret lovers and owners of the value of being on the SOS list. As well as reminding readers that the organization is out there and can be most helpful. You do not have to be a 501 c 3 organization to be listed or receive help. You simply need to contact the appropriate person there (Sharon Bearden, I believe) to join. If you are a member, and are in need of help, see if your request fits the requirements of their charter. They have the Blizzard Memorial Emergency Fund for ferrets who are taken into a shelter and may need special meds or surgery beyond the shelter's financial ability. They are able to see that food is sent to shelters in crisis and direct folks to people around them who can be of assistance in one way or another. www.supportourshelters.org In just the last 5 days, I have referred folks to the SOS list to look for shelters in their area who may have the information they need. Shelter Directors can be a wealth of information. This is the perfect place to seek a ferret savvy veterinarian. Remember, each shelter lists the vets they use as their shelter vets. This can be a lifesaving piece of information for a ferrant in need. It can be an avenue to place a ferret if someone is looking to adopt. I am always hopeful (that positive thinking again) that the listing might just bring shelters a worthy volunteer or donations. www.supportourshelters.org Two week ends ago I was able to locate a person on the east coast who has had to close her shelter, but who continues to offer ferrety advice when asked. Shelter folks don't typically forget all they have learned over the years - even if they are not running a shelter. The SOS list includes shelters around the world, not just in the U.S. If you run a shelter or need ferrety advice, please consider being added to the SOS list or using the SOS site - mark it on your favorites so you can find it quickly. www.supportourshelters.org. Just my two cents. Cathy Ryan Feed rescued animals in two clicks http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/home.faces?siteId=3 [Posted in FML 7324]