Kat, Please, don't go because a few folks misread you and responded as if you were callous. You had bad advice, and when you acted upon it your ferret was hurt. To help other ferrets avoid the same horrors and their people avoid the related misery you opened your heart to us, tore open your wounds, and let us all know your pain. That is a very brave thing to do -- both because it does hurt so much and because it is never easy to admit error especially when the mistake injured someone you love. You caused yourself grief to help others and that is an especially kind gift. Please, know that most people probably recognized your intent and your suffering. Sometimes an infection will make descenting unavoidable, but think of all the ferrets who will not meet the knife for cosmetic reasons due to your heart-rending letter. Sukie [Posted in FML issue 1894]