This message is in response to ML's request for a sitter in the SF bay area. I just want to comment that the legal status of ferrets in California is not necessarily a reason to stick away from professional pet sitters. I have had to deal with this issue, since I recently moved to California myself. In general, I have found that professional pet sitters are in the business because they genuinely love animals. For that reason, they would have very little motivation to turn your fuzzies in. When I was looking around for a sitter, I made several anonymous calls before deciding to give out any identifying information. It was clear that some sitters had never heard of ferrets before, whereas others had quite a bit of experience with them and adored playing with them. Another thing that you might try is asking your vet if he or she can recommend a sitter. That's how I ended up with my current sitter... it just so happened that one of the technicians in the office also does in-home sitting. Good luck in your search! Julie [Posted in FML issue 2876]