One of those interesting conversations

I am in the middle of trying to do cages, catching up with what didn't get done yesterday. Thursdays are kind of rough, one volunteer, and the couple of weeks before a holiday are awful. People have to deal with their family, and life in general.

But this conversation has to be documented. It kind of gives you an idea of some of the ones I have had in the past.

Me: Hello?
Caller: Is this the ferret shelter?
Me: Yes
Caller: I got your information in the mail. You know the brochure and the letter asking for donations or to get a paver. Do you take donations without getting a paver?
Me: Yes. All donations are tax deductible.
Caller: Good, I thought so. How much would the tax receipt say for donating my four ferrets?
Me: Excuse me?
Caller: I want to donate my four ferrets. They are really good.
Me: That isn't considered a donation. That is a surrender. You cannot get a tax deduction for surrendering your ferrets.
Caller: Why isn't it a donation? Besides, I don't like that word surrender. It sounds like I have given up.
Me: A donation is either money or an in kind donation. In kind meaning supplies we can use, or items we can use or sell to help support the shelter. What you want to is surrender your ferrets. And you are giving up rights and custody to them.
Caller: Well, I still don't like that word, and if I can't get a deduction for donating them I'll just find somewhere else to donate them. And I will tell people not to donate their ferrets to you.
Me: Ok. I hope you find somewhere to donate them that will care for them properly, and make sure they are current on their shots. Have a wonderful afternoon, and try to stay dry, it is pouring here.
Caller: huh.....OK. Bye.

Bettcha I get a call back tomorrow.