>In USA Today: Connecticut: Berlin - a fire at "Pets for U" killed 18 dogs >and numerous rabbits, FERRETS, and mice. Sadly, we were in that pet store about a month ago. It was a small, crowded store in a rundown mall. Fortunately, there were only a couple of ferrets, and they seemed in good condition. The worst part was seeing all the dogs--older puppies in small cages with nothing to do. I couldn't help wondering who would come and adopt these poor dogs. It seems that the animals who survived the fire have already been adopted. Someone I know said they saw an update and that the ferrets got out okay. I hope the animals who didn't make it, died quickly. Any CT folks know the whole story? CALIFORNIA SUGGESTION I think anyone who attends a ferret event in the U.S. or Canada (anywhere really) can help out California fuzzies and their owners. Here is my suggestion: At every ferret event, set up a table in support of California folks. Make this as easy as possible. Have pre-addressed, pre-stamped envelopes to people in California who should be hearing from non-California residents at this point. (California legalization folks, who are the most important people for non-Californians to contact?) Ask people to donate $1 to pay for postage, and let them write 2 or 3 *short simple* letters to those California people. I would also have a copy of Ilona's story (I asked her and she said it is okay to post this) for people to read. I know I was outraged when I read it. I think most people in the U.S would be shocked to know that people can invade your home and confiscate your pets. How about putting relevant info (ie, Ilona's story, a *few* names and addresses for out of state people to write to) on a website so anyone who is putting together a ferret event can use it for reference? I think if this were done at every event across the country, it could help! WORKING TOGETHER I think events like the HSUS Expo are wonderful ways to educate people about ferrets. The HSUS Expo draws animal folks from all over the country; I'm delighted that there was a presentation on ferrets this year! Congratulations to Pam and everyone else who made this happen. In my experience, the more people you can work with, the better! My personal feeling is that every animal group should be approached to help out with the situation in California. Why work on your own when there are lots of people out there who love animals--who may not necessarily know about ferrets but who can learn, just like the rest of us did (hey--how many of us grew up hearing "ferrets" as a household word??) It's a lot easier to criticize people than it is to work with someone you may not always agree with. In my opinion, people who can work together are the ones who really make things happen. Ronnie and Ralphie, curator of the squeaky toy collection Harry, 'we're going to meet some Brownies tomorrow' Prince Charming, 'can we eat the Brownies?' Merlin, the great white hunter of gloves [Posted in FML issue 1851]