To TLE: I think you were very lucky that nothing more serious happened. However, I would like to expand on your experience. If someone has a ferret (or any animal) that is reacting badly to an insect sting, waiting a couple of days could be detrimental. My feeling is that if your own vet is not available, looking for an open animal emergency clinic would be an appropriate thing to do. Stinging insects can cause anaphylactic reactions (just like vaccinations!) that can close the breathing passages, causing your animal to drown or suffocate. I say drown, because (if I'm not mistaken) fluid rushes into - or rather fills - the lungs making breathing difficult - and in some cases - impossible. This is essentially why antihistamines like Benadryl are given - to reduce the fluid buildup in the tissues. The fact that she responded so quickly after treatment indicates that she was still in some distress 2 or 3 days after the incident. With each additional "sting", reactions will become worse and more life- threatening. I have first hand experience w/this as I am allergic to bee and wasp stings myself. I have a "bee stinging kit" that contains 4 antihistamine tablets and a syrine of epinephrine. During the warm months, I carry it w/me everywhere. I wouldn't even consider a walk in the park w/out bringing it. I think it's better to be cautious - if your pet shows any signs of distress (difficulty breathing, facial swelling) after an insect sting, take them to a vet ASAP!! Debbie Riccio WNYFLFA [Posted in FML issue 1166]