I think everyone who has had ferrets long enough to see a few pass has had the same feelings and emotions. It hurts a great deal to see one that you love so fiercely pass away. There's a feeling of helplessness when nothing you can do will save them. There is certainly an emptiness when they are gone. However, none of these feelings would be there if they didn't bring us so much joy and love during their too-short stays with us. These creatures have the ability to give us so much richness and peace and happiness that it seems only right to give back as much as possible to them. In my shelter, we have one fabulous woman who specializes in taking in hospice ferrets. She takes them in knowing that their time is very short indeed. For her, there is great joy in knowing that she can make whatever time they have left the best it can possibly be, and that when they do pass, it will open up room for other ferrets equally in need. It takes a special heart to do that, but it brings her joy and fulfillment, and gives the ferrets immense comfort and peace to be so loved. Yes, there is pain when they pass, but for me, that pain doesn't come close to matching the joy that they give me while they are here. There are so many ferrets that need loving homes, I'd urge you to find a shelter if you can. I don't know what is available where you are, but if you can find a ferret shelter, you can at least volunteer your time and get a "ferret fix" at the same time. If you do so, it won't be long before a special little one claims you for their own. Kevin Farlee Washington Ferret Shelter [Posted in FML 7879]