>IMO, the only way to stop these horrable things that MF is believed to be >doing, is to stand together, not cut each other down.... I know I will >probably be flamed for this, but I could no longer sit and watch the people >of this list rip each other to shreds. >Vikki Well, I couldn't agree more with everything you said. Some have appeared to wish to distract this issue with personal issues unrelated and far deeper. It is also human nature to respond to these in a defensive manner and so it goes, spiraling down ever more. But I often find people find what they seek and ignore the rest. However, the real principles of this issue are Marshall Research and their ferrets and practices: NOT Dr Bell, NOT the Killians, and certainly NOT alphachi. It is just as unreasonable and unethical at this time to use Dr Bell as a supposed protagonist as anything else, and as I've already stated, no erroneous implications by *anyone* on her role will be countered by this author. The subject is past until Dr Bell personally decides otherwise, and as recently as yesterday, that likelihood seems dim. While I deeply regret her decision, we need to honor it. Again, zealots will always surface in an argument. Some do not take confidentially and ethics as a principle easily and are compelled to use them amorally. As uncovering the truth is an ongoing process, there is always time to reconsider. So, Vikki, while you and I and others must suffer the wrath and vendetta of some, and many witness with dismay and sometimes even disgust, you can rest assured we appear to be far better off than the ferrets in question. If we really care enough, perhaps we will be compelled as I, to read all the posts, and read over the mierda. After all, we are all bound by nature to drop a little as we go: you just have to watch your step and wipe your shoes often<G>. Please contact me for an actual and viable plan. It will take more than the passive-aggressive stance of a personal boycott. It will require an active, assertive, and directed role. You certainly appear to be ready for just such a role. >I was just wondering, how many of you would be willing to take in some MF >ferrets? I would like to let them know that there are other alternatives >to killing the poor fuzzies. This is a great thought. However, the numbers may be far too great without the financial responsibility being shared by those who created this mess or a marked change in their practices. But the argument of unprofitability wavers in the light of ferrets selling in Europe and other countries (not exactly third world) for a couple of bucks. So much so, that Marshall appears by some arguments to be able to kill one quarter of their breeding stock each and every year. BTW, do not confuse the breeding stock you are referencing with those cute, docile, and cuddly kits. These breeders were forced to live in conditions far different from a caring home or shelter. By many reports, they appear greatly more aggressive and special handling and remedial health attention may be required, strikingly similar to that of an abused animal. Vikki, nothing concerning Marshall appears to be simple or easy. best wishes, until next time, alphachi [Posted in FML issue 2236]