I use "r" for return message when I get mail from you. So, I can get back to you only as a return to a ferret list issue. [It looks like inuxy can't handle @ addresses, but it looks like inuxz can. Try: inuxz!ferret.ocunix.on.ca!clewis. If that doesn't help, try asking your System Administrator.] While I have this automatic path, I got this information yesterday: I called the vet whose newsletter said to have ferrets tested for heartworm. She said she had attended a seminar in Illinois and learned there that ferrets can get heartworm. It only takes a few microfilaria (sp? I know the word, but can't find it in the dictionary) to block a ferret's heart, so it can kill fast. She said that the test for heartworm was a blood test but "somewhat different" from the test done for dogs. The preventative is Ivermectin...the same dose as for a very small dog. Ivermectin is the once-a-month pill for dogs, so I guess that's the one she means. She also said that it's probably not necessary for ferrets that are indoors all of the time, but if you take your ferret outside much, you should keep it protected. Gumby says HI to all the ferrets out there. She is scheduled to appear at the Heritage Christian school for a week's engagement the third week in March. The grade-school science classes are studying mammals and Gumby is going to lick their noses and be a good-will ambassador for all carpet weasels everywhere. She has done this before (the science teacher there is a friend) and she enjoys the attention very much. The two best kids of the day get to feed her rice crackers and give her the daily treat of Nutrical...they really work for the honor. Gumby, of course, expects them to feel honored. The teacher has studied my printouts of all the ferret lists and understands that they are a domestic species, etc., so I don't worry about her giving out false information. Gumby doesn't care what they say as long as they play with her. Part of the play is the plastic fishing-rod toy I got for her. It has a furry thing at the end of a string so I can bounce it around. The kids enjoy doing that with her and learn about predators and prey. They also will learn about metabolism (let's take turns feeling Gumby's heart...what do you think Gumby's temperature will be...higher or lower than ours...etc.). There is a chance she'll pick up a cold, of course, so it's a bit of a risk. But she did this last year and nothing happened, so I am going to let her do it again. The school is directly across the street from my office, so I can be reached immediately if she gets sick. Her distemper shots are current. I think it's good for ferrets everywhere when real information about them gets passed on to kids. I think it's also good for kids who don't have pets to learn how to be responsible and humane. Gumby takes it in stride...the honor is simply her due. Joyce Joyce Gumby says HI, too. [Posted in FML issue 0218]