In reply to Mr. Killian's post regarding the absorption of MF retired breeders, I myself as shelter director have contacted Mr. Peter Reid directly ( VP at MF) about this possibility. I was informed that: 1 - he would have to check with his board ? regarding that if it were possible 2 - the breeders would have to be spayed/neutered by MF and I (the shelter) would have to absorb the cost, 3 - we would have to absorb also the shipping costs as no one is allowed on the premises due to contamination risks?, In all we would have to forfeit $80 or so for each retired breeder to save it from euthanization. This is a cost the shelter here cannot absorb, as I imagine any other shelter could not. Where is the rationale and good will on behalf of this operation?? This is somewhat vague to me and my colleagues. To all those breeders we could not save-- we are so truly sorry we could not give you the life of a companion ferret. How should we as rescue and shelter folks deal with this attitude on behalf of the ferret mills? I ask you.... [Posted in FML issue 1703]