I too am from Iowa and the best vet in the Ames /Des Moines area is :
 
 Robert Culver D.V.M.
 Heartland Animal Hospital
 4110 University Avenue
 Des Moines, IA  50311
 (515)255-4464
 
He did the adrenal surgery on our CD and at the same time he treated him for
kidney stones.  He is a wonderful vet and adores ferrets.  He specialized in
ferrets while in school.  He has an exam room that is ferret proofed.  I
drive 2 hours to see him if I need to.  I trust him completely with my kids.
Hope this helps.
 
Terry and the Energetic 18
[Posted in FML issue 1997]