I agree that animal testing is a sad fact of life. But as a result, has saved the lives of millions. It's my understanding that ferrets are used extensively for respiratory testing. Many of my family members would not have survived without the medications - that were probably 1st tested on animals, maybe ferrets - for safety. The original concerns about animal testing were justifibly brought about because of inhumane &/or unnecessary practices. We now have government agencies to regulate & monitor the practices of research facilities. & hopefully they're doing the job as it should be done. MF isn't doing anything any more unacceptable than any other farmer who raises cattle, sheep, chickens, pigs, etc. for our tables. You're probably right about MF not having the love for these creatures that we do. These are our pets, they are MF's product. Do you honestly believe that all animal testing will ever be done away with when our society has created the need for proof-positive testing? We live in a litigious society, where every time a product doesn't perform as it should, the company gets sued. So before you condemn all animal testing think about this. More ferrets will die in the rabies shedding time study. Just as they did in the approval of the IMRAB rabies vaccine. Are you willing to forego the completion of the rabies shedding time study at the possible cost of your own ferret's life? My opinions are my own & not necessarily those of the GDFA KODO IS DEAD - LONG LIVE KODO Juliana Frodo, Rocks, Anola Gay, SNAFU, FUBAR, Tabu, Chaos, Tuxedo, Bijou, Fiasco, & Dazzle [Posted in FML issue 2001]