ferrets

Our ferret Gizmo could make you smile with the simplest of actions. She'd follow you all over the house, undeterred by the walls and corners she couldn't see, and perk her head up almost to ask "Whee! Where are we going now?". And man how she loved a fresh potato. Put a potato on the ground and she'd try to drag it to one-of-her-many secret hiding spots.

She was curious and playful. She used to love sitting in my suitcase before I'd leave for a trip and I'd pull her around the house. When I'd stop she'd jump out and dook and dance for a spell then climb back in for another ride. There were a couple times she almost ended up on a plane with me!

Oftentimes when you picked Gizzy up she'd climb right to the top of your shoulder and just sit there, perched on high sharing your view. She might even give you a kiss or nestle up in your hair. Her fur was so soft against your cheek and the heat of her body against your neck was calming.

On walks, Gizmo was always the ferret to find her way home first. She'd walk side by side with you. And I know you think I'm making this next part up, but yes, she also knew how to heel: stopping on a dime and waiting for my lead.

She was a great companion, a teacher, and a wonderful sister to Olive. I'm going to miss hearing them play in the mornings: running through the ferret tubes under our bed, or the pitter patter of her little feet scurrying across our floor, or feeling her lick my arms while I meditated by the fireplace.

She had complications from adrenal gland surgery and died peacefully in her sleep.

Gizmo, you are dearly missed but you continue to warm our hearts with your memories. I still cannot wipe away the smile of joy you gave us even amongst these tears of loss. Thank you for your friendship. We love you!

* illustration by lindha boberg

I'm happy to report that the girls are better. After about a month total of hospitalization and the amazing care by the team at Oaks Veterinary Clinic in Des Moines they're back at home and on the improve.

Thanks for all yours prayers and support!

One of our ferrets, Gizmo (left), hasn't been eating for the past couple of days so we took her to the vet today and they're keeping her there overnight for observations. In the 3 1/2 years they've been our animal companions, this is the first time they've been separated from each other. She's under the care of Dr. Rick Harmon, a vet and former ferret breeder which means she's in great hands! I hope she feels better soon.

I was sitting here in the office where we keep the ferrets and I hear Ollie trying to climb up one of our storage bins. I was fast enough to grab my camera and get of movie of this (no sound though). Crazy! (watch the movie)