For those of you who asked about updates to my site based on the Care and Preservation of Vinyl Dolls book I got, they're finished. There are updates all across the site.
Ironically, a lot of what collectors used to think actually turns out to be true. Like pony cancer/age spots and smooze really is often caused by fungus. The author also provides really solid info on how to prevent fungal growth, what "highlighter marks" often actually are (yup, fungus), and why exposure to chlorine is really bad for PVC.
I haven't been able to find any contact information for him so I haven't been able to write and ask questions specific to ponies. Anyone especially good at cyber stalking? I'm hoping the pony collecting chemist I've been corresponding with (Delphinbella) will have more answers that are specifically safe for ponies/dyed vinyl. Hopefully those updates will be coming soon as well!
Yes, this is what I've been spending my holiday doing. Merry Christmas to all and a pony filled New Year!