Before you Adopt....

<body topmargin=0 leftmargin=0 marginheight=0 marginwidth=0> <table cellpadding=0 cellspacing=0 border=0><tr> <td valign="top" colspan=2 height=110 BGCOLOR="#666699" TEXT="#080000" bgproperties="fixed" background="06300840erlcjm.png"> <div> <FONT SIZE="5" COLOR="#FFFFFF" FACE="Arial" ><B>Four Corners Ferret Rescue</B></FONT><B>     |     </B><A HREF="index.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Four Corners Ferret Rescue"><U><B>home</B></U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="id2.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="News"><U>News</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id6.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="About Us"><U>About Us</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id5.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="How to Help"><U>How to Help</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id64.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Giving your Ferret Up"><U>Giving your Ferret Up</U></A>   |   <B>Before you Adopt....</B>   |   <A HREF="id65.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Ferret Nutrition"><U>Ferret Nutrition</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id42.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="FAQ"><U>FAQ</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id53.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Media (sounds and webcam)"><U>Media (sounds and webcam)</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id48.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Ferrets"><U>Ferrets</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id54.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Ask Angel"><U>Ask Angel</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id55.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Robbies Reviews"><U>Robbie's Reviews</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id59.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Resources"><U>Resources</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id61.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Application Page"><U>Application Page</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id58.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Rainbow Bridge"><U>Rainbow Bridge</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id57.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Animal Quotes"><U>Animal Quotes</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id66.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Animal Stories"><U>Animal Stories</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id7.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Contact Us"><U>Contact Us</U></A>   |   <A HREF="id60.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Links"><U>Links</U></A></div> <div> </div> </td> </tr><tr> <td valign="top" width=190 BGCOLOR="#CCCCFF" TEXT="#080000" background="05d11c00egdysm.png"> <div> <B><IMG SRC="065b0670.jpg" border=0 width="176" height="103" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></B></div> <div> <B>Dear Father, hear and bless</B></div> <div> <B>Thy beasts and singing birds:</B></div> <div> <B>And guard with tenderness</B></div> <div> <B>Small things that have no words. </B></div> </td> <td valign="top" height=370 BGCOLOR="#FFFFFF" TEXT="#080000"> <div> Before you Adopt....</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <I><B>Ferret </B></I><I><B> <A NAME="bill_of_rights"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A></B></I><I><B>Bill of Rights</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>Bob Church</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>1. The ferret has the right to life. In those instances where euthanasia is seen as the only moral and ethical option, then it is to be performed with dignity and compassion and in a painless manner.</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>2. The ferret has the right to professional veterinary care and treatment, as well as medical treatments that prevent disease such as heartworm, rabies and distemper, among others.</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>3. The ferret has the right to clean water and nutritious food, presented in a sanitary manner.</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>4. The ferret has the right to live in a clean and stimulating environment commensurate to its intelligence and curiosity.</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>5. The ferret has the right to positive physical contact with people and other ferrets.</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>6. The ferret has the right to daily exercise and to explore its environment.</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>7. The ferret has the right to be a ferret, not a dog nor a cat.</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>8. The ferret has the right to live in a secure and stress-free environment, which includes places to hide when sleeping.</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>9. The ferret has the right to be bred in a safe, moral and ethical manner, with the assurance offspring from such breeding will also be treated ethically and morally.</B></I></div> <div> <I><B>10. The ferret has the right to defend itself when afraid, without fear of judgement or reprisal.</B></I></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>   <a href="http://www.pet-abuse.com/prevent/test.php?from_site=http://www.fourcornersferretrescue.com"><img src="http://www.pet-abuse.com/images/buttons/owner-test-black.gif" width="153" height="136" border=0 alt="Are YOU a responsible pet owner? Find out now, from Pet-Abuse.Com"></a>   </div> <div> <B>Take this test! </B> </div> <div> <I>And...</I></div> <div> <B>Please Consider the Following-</B></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#990066" FACE="Arial" >                     </FONT>     Anyone can be a parent, whether one has a child of </div> <div>                           their own or adopts one. The same goes with pets - </div> <div>                           anyone can have a pet, whether that pet is bought, </div> <div>                           received as a gift, rescued or adopted. However, it </div> <div>                           takes a responsible person to be a good parent and/or </div> <div>                           pet guardian. A responsible pet guardian loves and </div> <div>                           cares for his pet - provides a happy home, health care </div> <div>                           and nutrition, and training to control the actions of </div> <div>                           the pet, sets aside regular playtime and grooming </div> <div>                           periods, and cleans up after the pet. A pet is a </div> <div>                           privilege and a lifetime commitment. Through </div> <div>                           responsible pet guardians' love, concern and actions </div> <div>                           regarding each pet that is brought into the home, </div> <div>                           every pet becomes a cherished member of the family.</div> <bR> <div>                           When thinking about getting a pet, each person in the </div> <div>                           family should seriously think long and hard about that </div> <div>                           commitment ... the training, the care, the expense. </div> <div>                           Each person should be in agreement about getting a </div> <div>                           pet. Getting a pet and then afterwards trying to </div> <div>                           influence the one who didn't want the responsibility </div> <div>                           to care for and love the pet usually only causes deep </div> <div>                           resentment toward the pet. The pet is the one who </div> <div>                           suffers in the long run: fear, intimidation, and </div> <div>                           eventually possible abuse and homelessness.</div> <bR> <div>                           The following questions should be thoroughly discussed </div> <div>                           by you and your family before bringing home a pet:</div> <bR> <bR> <div>                             Are you aware of our society's pet surplus problem </div> <div>                             and will you take part in it by allowing your pet to </div> <div>                             breed?</div> <bR> <bR> <div>                             If you are an apartment or other rental dweller, </div> <div>                             will your new pet "outgrow" the home? Will you move </div> <div>                             if you need more room for your pet? What will happen </div> <div>                             should you move? Will you consider another apartment </div> <div>                             that will not take pets? Will you compromise with a </div> <div>                             new landlord's tenant requirements if pets are </div> <div>                             permitted? (i.e., "Well, I would have had to get rid </div> <div>                             of Binky if I didn't declaw him" or "Lady barks so </div> <div>                             much when she goes into heat that the new landlord </div> <div>                             said we can't keep her, so we're taking her to the </div> <div>                             pound or shelter.") If you are buying or building a </div> <div>                             new home, are your carpeting, hardwood flooring, </div> <div>                             drapes, furniture, landscaped lawn, etc. more </div> <div>                             important to you than your pet?</div> <bR> <bR> <div>                             If you permit your pet outside, will you follow your </div> <div>                             state and local animal laws and licensing </div> <div>                             regulations so that he doesn't infringe on the </div> <div>                             rights of others?</div> <bR> <bR> <div>                             Are you willing to devote time each and every day </div> <div>                             for exercise, grooming and play regardless of how </div> <div>                             busy you are? If you are away from home for more </div> <div>                             than a day, will you have someone come into your </div> <div>                             home for quality time spent with the pet while you </div> <div>                             are gone? Will your pet be left alone in an empty </div> <div>                             house or apartment during the day while you work? </div> <div>                             Will you consider getting him a companion if you </div> <div> are?</div> <bR> <bR> <div>                             If your family has children, have you thought to </div> <div>                             include them in the responsibilities of caring for </div> <div>                             your pet? If not, will you make time to teach your </div> <div>                             children how to properly care, train and clean up </div> <div>                             after your pet?</div> <bR> <bR> <div>                             What will happen should your pet develop a serious </div> <div>                             disease, or is ill for a long period of time, or </div> <div>                             develops an illness or disease associated with </div> <div>                             aging? Will you continue taking him to the vet for </div> <div>                             treatment, regardless of the cost? Will you make </div> <div>                             sure he's not suffering due to lack of veterinary </div> <div>                             care, medications and any special dietary measures? </div> <div>                             Will additional care and expense for an ill or aging </div> <div>                             pet crimp your lifestyle in any way?</div> <bR> <bR> <div>                             What will happen to the pet in the break-up of your </div> <div>                             relationship or marriage? If the pet seems happier </div> <div>                             with your ex, will you be willing to forsake your </div> <div>                             feelings for the sake of the pet's?</div> <bR> <bR> <div>                             If you should lose your source of income, will your </div> <div>                             pet lose his "right" to live in your home? Will any </div> <div>                             form of abandonment be considered (i.e., given to a </div> <div>                             co-worker, friend or relative, taken to a shelter or </div> <div>                             pound, left on the street, euthanized, etc.)? If all </div> <div>                             your options to keep your pet have been exhausted </div> <div>                             and you must give him up, will you consider the pet </div> <div>                             responsibility of the prospective new guardian? Will </div> <div>                             you make it clearly understood that you will take </div> <div>                             the pet back if his new home doesn't work out? Will </div> <div>                             you follow-up to make sure your pet is well cared </div> <div>                             for and happily adjusted in his new home? And if you </div> <div>                             have any doubts whatsoever about the new guardian, </div> <div>                             will you take steps to rehome your pet again?</div> <div>                           If you and your family are uncertain about any of the </div> <div>                           above questions or you've come up with ANY excuses why </div> <div>                           you could make a decision to exclude the pet currently </div> <div>                           sharing your life, you should never own a pet. </div> <div>                           Consider owning a pet rock instead - now that's one </div> <div>                           pet which requires no responsibility whatsoever.</div> <bR> <div> ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>                            <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#990066" FACE="Verdana" > "We are your friends, your confidants, your </FONT></div> <div>                             companions. We share your lives, and whatever </div> <div>                             affects us, also affects you to some degree. We rely </div> <div>                             on you for our needs, and are dependent on you for </div> <div>                             our protection and well-being. Please do us no harm; </div> <div>                             we are helpless before you and at your mercy.</div> <bR> <div>                             We are living, breathing, sentient life-forms; we </div> <div>                             are not playthings to be altered to suit the </div> <div>                             convenience and lifestyle of those with whom we </div> <div>                             choose to share our lives. Whatever alterations you </div> <div>                             make to our bodies should directly benefit us </div> <div>                             individually or as a species; it should never be </div> <div>                             solely for personal vanity or convenience.</div> <bR> <div>                             Many humans place themselves above us in arrogance </div> <div>                             and ignorance, they claim we are lesser beings and </div> <div>                             we have no soul and no language; therefore we have </div> <div>                             no rights, nor do we deserve rights.</div> <bR> <div>                             It can never be proven with any certainty that we </div> <div>                             have no soul, and many do not understand our </div> <div>                             language; so much for human superiority. If you </div> <div>                             would give us more than just cursory attention, we </div> <div>                             can prove to you we do have a soul, you can learn </div> <div>                             our language and have the ability to communicate </div> <div>                             with us.</div> <bR> <div>                             Accept us and learn who we are. Understand our </div> <div>                             needs, treat us with dignity, and have compassion </div> <div>                             for us when we are unable to defend ourselves in </div> <div>                             what is our world also. Respect us and love us as </div> <div>                             individuals and we will enrich your life beyond your </div> <div>                             wildest expectation."</div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Verdana" >               </FONT>  </div> <div> ========================================================================================</div> <bR> <div> Step into any ferret fancier's home and you'll set foot into a different world. As any ferret owner and enthusiast can tell you, owning a ferret, or rather being owned by a ferret, is a unique experience. These people are the first to admit that having ferrets is a lot of work, but it is undoubtedly a labor of love. These lovely little creatures are friendly and entertaining with their antics of dancing and dooking (hopping). </div> <div> The domestic ferret (mustelaide furo) has been domesticated for thousands of years. It is believed that the ferret originated in Europe, for purposes of hunting rodents. Also belonging to the ferret family are skunks, otters, weasels and polecats. Ferrets, like their cousins, are strict carnivores and require a high protein, meat based diet. Your veterinarian and ferret shelters can provide you with a list of foods meeting the nutritional requirements of your ferret. </div> <bR> <div> Ferrets enjoy both human and ferret companionship. They require a minimum of three hours of social interaction per day. Friendly and curious by nature, ferrets can and will get into everything, including houseplants, cabinets, closets, etc. Anywhere a ferret can fit its head, it will squeeze its body into. Ensuring the health and safety of your ferret is priority number one. Whether you've had ferrets for years or are a first time owner, you must ensure that your ferrets' play areas are "ferret proofed." </div> <div> Routine maintenance will keep your pet happy and healthy. Nail trimming, ear cleaning and tooth brushing should be done on at least a bi-weekly basis. But what about that "musky" odor? Sanitary living conditions are the best way to ensure odor control. This includes cleaning the litter pans daily, changing bedding at least once a week and using a diluted bleach solution to clean the cage on a weekly basis. </div> <div> The needs of a ferret are similar to those of a dog or a cat. They require annual health exams by a veterinarian and vaccinations including distemper and rabies. However, unlike dogs and cats, ferrets are susceptible to the common cold and flu. If you are sick, you should not handle your ferret until you are well. Unfortunately, as ferrets age, they are more prone to illnesses in their later years, ranging from various types of cancers, Aleutians Disease Virus, tumors and insulinoma. Because ferrets are considered exotic animals, veterinary care can be more costly. </div> <bR> <div> So you've researched and educated yourself about ferrets and have decided that a ferret is the right pet for you. A good first step in obtaining one is to contact your local ferret clubs and shelters. Both are an excellent source for information on health, training, veterinarians or any other questions you may have. New Mexico has a network of ferret shelters; you can contact your local Animal Humane Association for a list of shelters in your area. </div> <div> What are the benefits and drawbacks of adopting a ferret from a shelter? First of all, there are numerous ferrets in shelters in need of loving homes. In fact, many of the ferrets in these shelters are waiting to be adopted by qualified homes. Most of the time a ferret from a shelter is litter box trained, well socialized and well behaved. There are exceptions to this, as ferret shelters are known for taking on some of the toughest cases. Ferret shelters accept all ferrets - young and old, abused and neglected, special needs and unwanted. If necessary, adoptable ferrets are rehabilitated with patience and love, while unadoptable ferrets become permanent residents of the shelter. </div> <div> Ferret shelters are all home-owned and operated by volunteers who sacrifice their own time and money to ensure the happiness and safety of ferrets. They rely on donations of food, litter, cages, toys and adoption fees to survive. In Albuquerque alone, local shelters rarely have fewer than 15 ferrets at any given time and are in constant need of support. Despite the special assistance from veterinarians and volunteers, there is never enough help. Please contact your local shelters and see how you can help today!</div> <bR> <bR> <div> This article contributed by my friend and fellow ferret rescuer, Heather Angevine</div> <div> <I>Heather Angevine operates Hooked on Ferrets Rescue & Shelter in Albuquerque</I></div> <div> <I>(505-271-5946), e-mail address: </I><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#0000FF" FACE="Verdana" ><I><U>hookedonferrets@aol.com</U></I></FONT> </div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B>=======================================================================================</B></div> <bR> <div> <B>Free??? There’s No Such Animal!</B></div> <div> People often just don’t realize until it is too late. As humane volunteers we decided you would probably much rather know than make the same mistake. It is always wiser to be forewarned. </div> <div> In today’s society, where money is everything, animals given “free” to a good home are easily assumed to be worthless. People have absolutely no incentive to take care of a free animal, or to protect it. They certainly don’t hesitate to ‘get rid of it’ as easily as the got it. Why should they invest in something that didn’t cost them anything to begin with? </div> <div> Kittens, puppies, rabbits, cats and small dogs are fed to snakes, used to train fighting dogs, in satanic rituals, are often tortured, and also used for human consumption. Unfortunately, these things happen quite frequently. </div> <div> “Class B Dealers”, (individuals who are licensed by the USDA to buy and sell animals to research) obtain animals “free” to a good home and in turn sell them to a life of terror. While it is illegal to obtain the animals under false pretense, it is a law, not easily or often enforced. If you hesitate to believe this fact, please call us at (817) 379-0969. We will show you a USDA Listing of Class “B” Dealers in your area. </div> <div> Many of the reasons listed here are what drives humane societies and rescue groups to screen adopters. Often seen as an inconvenience and an intrusion of privacy by some, it is a virtual life preserver for pets we adopt out. As we see it, there’s no such thing as a “free” animal. </div> <div> Volunteers who work endless hours to save pets from the horrors of abuse and homelessness bring this message to you. Permission to reproduce this information and distribute is granted, encouraged and greatly appreciated.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <IMG SRC="0ea58ce0.jpg" border=0 width="600" height="462" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="11" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=CENTER HEIGHT= 19 WIDTH="7"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="19" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="7" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <B>Are You Thinking About Owning A Ferret?</B><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Verdana" > </FONT></div> <div> <B>uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu</B></div> <div> <B>You should ask yourself the following questions:</B></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="602" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=CENTER HEIGHT= 38 WIDTH="598"><div> <B><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700f080000000.png" HEIGHT="16" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Will you be able to afford to pay for high quality food, supplies and possibly up to $1000.00 or more for medical bills?</B></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="640" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 57 WIDTH="22"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="57" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="22" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="10"><div> •</div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=CENTER WIDTH="598"><div> <B>Do you have at least 3 hours a day free for supervised out of the cage "ferret play time," and additional time for grooming and cage cleanings?</B></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="305" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 19 WIDTH="10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="19" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="10" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="10"><div> •<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Verdana" > </FONT></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=CENTER><NOBR><div> <B>Are you a patient person? </B></div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="628" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 57 WIDTH="10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="57" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="10" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="10"><div> •<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Verdana" > </FONT></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=CENTER WIDTH="598"><div> <B>Will you get very upset or want to get rid of the ferret if it scraches a hole in the carpet (or other furnishings), or uses the bathroom on the floor (if the answer is yes, don't get a ferret)?</B></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="628" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 38 WIDTH="10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="38" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="10" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="10"><div> •<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Verdana" > </FONT></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=CENTER WIDTH="598"><div> <B>Are you willing to make changes to your home to protect your ferret and your furnishings?</B></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="628" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 57 WIDTH="10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="57" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="10" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="10"><div> •<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Verdana" > </FONT></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=CENTER WIDTH="598"><div> <B>Will you be able to provide constant supervision between your ferret and your young children? Will you be able to help with the care of the ferret?</B></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="628" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 38 WIDTH="10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="38" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="10" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="10"><div> •<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Verdana" > </FONT></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=CENTER WIDTH="598"><div> <B>Do you have other pets at home that your ferret may not get along with?</B></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="476" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 19 WIDTH="10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="19" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="10" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="10"><div> •<FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Verdana" > </FONT></div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=CENTER><NOBR><div> <B>Are ferrets legal in your state or county?</B></div> </NOBR></tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=CENTER HEIGHT= 19 WIDTH="10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="19" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="10" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=CENTER WIDTH="10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="19" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="10" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=CENTER WIDTH="446"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="19" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="446" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <div> Here's a list of some of the larger places where ferrets are illegal, as of <FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Arial" ><I><B><U>April 1998</U></B></I></FONT>. A more extensive list is also available.</div> <bR> <div> California; Hawaii; Washington, DC; Dallas, Ft. Worth, Beaumont, and various other cities in TX; Bloomington and Burnsville, MN; Tulsa, OK; Columbus, OH; London, York, and East York, Ontario, Canada; Puerto Rico</div> <bR> <div> Although ferrets aren't actually illegal in New York City or Minneapolis, MN, they are not welcomed and may be confiscated or ticketed. Similarly, although it's legal to own ferrets in South Carolina, it's not legal to sell them there. </div> <bR> <div> Permits or licenses are required in order to own ferrets in the following places: New Jersey ($10/year), Rhode Island ($10/year), Illinois (free). Permits are also required in St. Paul, MN, and may be difficult to obtain.</div> <bR> <div> <B>These lists are by no means complete, so check locally before you buy a ferret.</B></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="106" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=CENTER HEIGHT= 19 WIDTH="102"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="19" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="102" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=CENTER HEIGHT= 19 WIDTH="102"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="19" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="102" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="626" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=CENTER HEIGHT= 76 WIDTH="622"><div> <B>Ferrets are loyal, playful, intelligent, affectionate, and full of hilarious antics. I have never met a person who didn't laugh after seeing a happy ferret leap and bounce around a room during play (the "dance of joy")! Ferrets can easily help chase the blues away after a hard day. </B></div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=CENTER HEIGHT= 19 WIDTH="622"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="19" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="622" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="626" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=CENTER HEIGHT= 76 WIDTH="622"><div> <B>However, ferrets are a big responsibility and can require expensive medical treatments and surgeries. Please do your research (and make sure you have funds available for medical care) before purchasing or adopting a ferret</B><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Verdana" ><B>. </B></FONT></div> </tD> </tR> <tR> <tD VALIGN=CENTER HEIGHT= 19 WIDTH="622"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="19" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="622" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="628" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 134 WIDTH="10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="134" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="10" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="10"><div> • </div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=CENTER WIDTH="598"><div> Ferrets are pretty easy to please, however they can be considered a "high maintenance" pet. All they ask is that you let them out of their cage to play for at least three hours a day, give them lots of affection and keep them clean, healthy and safe. The rest of their time is spent napping- for ferrets sleep fifteen to eighteen hours a day. Ferrets are easily litter box trained, although accidents can happen, and will adjust to your schedule quite well. </div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="628" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 96 WIDTH="10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="96" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="10" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="10"><div> • </div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=CENTER WIDTH="598"><div> <B>The risk of getting bitten by a ferret is actually less than the risk of getting bitten by a cat or dog</B>. Ferrets can nip when they are young, however this is done out of play and they can easily be trained not to do so. Ferrets who are afraid, sick, or have been abused do have the potential to bite (no different than any other domestic pet). </div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="628" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 172 WIDTH="10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="172" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="10" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="10"><div> • </div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=CENTER WIDTH="598"><div> <B>Ferrets are not wild animals or rodents</B>. They are weasels (<I>mustela putorius furo</I>) who have been domesticated for thousands of years. Ferrets do have a slight musky odor, but neutering or spaying your ferret can keep the musk from being too strong. Ferrets who are not being used for breeding <B>must be spayed or neutered </B>for health reasons. Female ferrets will go into prolonged heat and eventually die from aplastic anemia if they are kept intact and not bred. Male ferrets will become aggressive towards other male ferrets and release a strong, unpleasant musky odor (although some humans actually enjoy the smell).</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="0" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="628" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="VOID" RULES="NONE" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP HEIGHT= 172 WIDTH="10"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="172" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="10" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></tD> <tD VALIGN=TOP WIDTH="10"><div> • </div> </tD> <tD VALIGN=CENTER WIDTH="598"><div> If a ferret with intact anal scent glands is very frightened, it can release a foul odor. However, unlike a skunk, the odor does not linger as long and it does not smell as bad. Most pet shop ferrets have been descented (anal scent glands removed), however this practice is considered to be mutilation by some people. Ferrets who feel safe and are treated well by their owners will generally not express their anal scent glands unless they are extremely frightened. Ferrets have scent glands located all over their body, however the anal glands are the only ones they can release as a form of protection.</div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <bR> <div> The decision to adopt or purchase a ferret (or any other pet) should be a careful one. Ferrets <U>do</U> bond with their owners and become stressed when separated from them. So, if you are considering a ferret as an addition to your family, think of it as an eight to ten year commitment. <B>Don't act impulsively.</B> <B>Ferrets do require a big commitment on the part of their owners to ensure optimum health and safety</B>. </div> <bR> <div> In the following section, I have outlined some questions you should ask yourself before adopting or purchasing a ferret. I am including this section not to discourage ferret ownership, but to help those considering ferret ownership make an educated decision. I think ferrets are the greatest pets in the world, but they are not for everyone! <B>There are far too many ferrets in ferret shelters around the United States and beyond (this is why you should always consider adopting a ferret from a shelter rather than purchasing one from a pet store)</B>. </div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> <B>1. </B><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Verdana" ><B><U>Cost</U></B></FONT> - Can you afford to own a ferret? Ferrets themselves are fairly expensive, around $100.00 from a pet store, and they require proper food, cages, accessories and medical care. One should always consider adopting a ferret from a ferret shelter as well. Older ferrets are a good choice for first time ferret owners, as they are less hyperactive and may already be trained. Baby ferrets (kits) require a lot of training, patience and time from their owners. </div> <bR> <div> Ferrets require high quality ferret or kitten food (not the kind you can usually find in the super market). Be sure you have at least $25.00 dollars or so a month per ferret to spend on ferret food. You may not need quite that much, however it's better to over shoot than come up short.  </div> <bR> <div> Ferrets require quality cages and accessories. Cages designed for ferrets can run anywhere from $60.00 to $500.00 or more per cage. If your ferret is going to spend a lot of time in the cage, a larger cage with ramps and tunnels should be purchased. Accessories such as litter pans, paper litter, shampoo, water bottles, feeding dishes, hammocks and toys can run you an additional $50.00 or more.</div> <bR> <div> Ferrets can also suffer from a variety of health conditions (cancer, ECE, adrenal disease, respiratory infections, injuries, gastrointestinal blockages, etc. Your ferret may require surgery or an extended hospital stay. Be prepared to have at least $1,000.00 set aside for such emergencies. Also, unless you are an experienced breeder, your ferrets have to be spayed or neutered by six months of age. Most pet store and shelter ferrets have already had this procedure performed. Sexually intact female ferrets (jills) will go into prolonged heat if not mated and will eventually become seriously ill and die. Sexually intact males (hobs) will become aggressive towards other male ferrets while in rut and will develop a strong odor and anxiety if not mated.</div> <bR> <div> <TABLE BORDER="2" CELLPADDING="1" CELLSPACING="1" WIDTH="733" BORDERCOLORLIGHT="#C0C0C0" BORDERCOLORDARK="#808080" FRAME="BOX" RULES="ALL" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" > <tR> <tD VALIGN=TOP BGCOLOR=#FFFF00 HEIGHT= 57 WIDTH="723"><div> <B>Sadly, ferrets are often given up to shelters or put to sleep when their humans can't afford to give them proper medical treatment. Having a fund available for health emergencies can save your ferret's life and save you from a lot of heartache.</B></div> </tD> </tR> </TABLE></div> <bR> <bR> <bR> <div> <B>2.</B> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Verdana" ><B><U>Time</U></B> </FONT>- Do you have the time to properly care for a ferret? If you are someone who is out of town a lot or is gone from morning until late at night, a ferret may not be the right pet for you. Ferrets are social animals and need at least three hours of "out of cage" play time each day (this means <B>you</B> have to play with them and <B>supervise</B> their activities). If a ferret is left alone for long periods of time, or is never let out of the cage (this is abusive) it will become depressed, stressed or ill. If you do work long hours and you are bent on getting a ferret (not recommended), purchase two ferrets and an extra large cage or set up an enclosed "ferret proofed" room with lots of safe toys. Make sure you let them out to play when you get home or in the morning before you leave for work (or both). </div> <bR> <div> Young (and some older) ferrets need to be trained. Litter pan training, teaching them not to nip, and ferret proofing your house all take time. Ferrets can also learn to come when you call them, respond to "squeaky" toys and perform simple tricks (rolling over, standing up for a treat etc.). Owning a ferret is some what like owning a dog (and I stress "somewhat"). They are social animals who need human interaction and limits set to them by their owners. An unsupervised ferret can get into a lot of trouble around the house.</div> <bR> <div> Finally, you need to set aside time for grooming. Although grooming your ferret is not extremely time consuming, it must be done on a consistent basis or health issues may result. </div> <bR> <div> <B>3.</B> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Verdana" ><B><U>Patience</U></B></FONT>- Patience is an important virtue where ferret ownership is concerned. Owning a ferret can be like having a two year old child who never grows up! Ferrets are very persistent, intelligent and curious animals who will try to get into everything-- especially things they are not supposed to! For instance, if a ferret takes a liking to scratching a certain spot of the carpet, it will take more than just one "no" to get it to stop the behavior. The ferret may stop for a few seconds or even several minutes and then return to scratching the spot when you are not paying attention. Usually you will need to make adaptations to your house and furnishings to protect them (and the ferrets) from harm.</div> <bR> <bR> <div> Ferrets like to hide things. If you leave the remote, a wallet, socks, keys etc. where ferrets can reach them, the items will usually end up in their favorite hiding place! Be prepared for litter box accidents, drinks getting knocked over, potted plants being dug into and toys and other objects showing up under the couch or bed (or just missing completely). It takes time and creativity to stop a ferret from exhibiting unwanted behaviors, however some behaviors are just part of a ferret's nature and will persist. In other words, if you are someone with a short fuse and little patience, ferret ownership is probably not for you.</div> <bR> <bR> <div> <B>4.</B> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Verdana" ><B><U>Young Children</U></B></FONT>- Do you have children under the age of five at home? Children, especially very young ones, have difficulty understanding how to properly treat animals. Small children have a tendency to pull, grab, squeeze and drop small animals without realizing they can hurt them. This can lead to injuries to the ferret, or the ferret may possibly nip the child out of fear. </div> <bR> <div> Children under the age of six or infants should never be left unsupervised with an adult or baby ferret. If your child is under the age of six, I would especially advise not purchasing your child a baby ferret (kit). Kits are <B>very</B> active, are hard to hold on to, and can nip before they are trained not to do so. They are also very small and could be easily harmed by a young, inexperienced handler. An adult will be needed to care for grooming, cage cleanings, supervision, and playtime. <B>Ferrets are not like hamsters or mice and cannot be kept in a cage for prolonged periods of time.</B> Parents should be prepared to supervise interaction between young children and ferrets.</div> <bR> <div> <B>5. </B><FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Verdana" ><B><U>Other Pets</U></B></FONT>- Do you have other pets in your household? Ferrets can get along with some other domesticated pets, mainly cats and some breeds of dogs. Ferrets and cats generally get along the best (especially if they were raised together). Dogs are a little more tricky. If you own a hunting dog, a terrier, or a dog that likes to chase small animals, it will spell trouble for your ferret. Always use <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Verdana" ><B>EXTREME</B></FONT> caution and intense supervision when introducing a ferret to a dog or cat. Ferrets have been killed by dogs and seriously scratched by cats. Ferrets are so domesticated that they have lost most of their natural fear of other animals. They may just boldly walk up to a dog or cat out of curiosity and get harmed. </div> <bR> <div> Never leave your ferret alone with birds, hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, mice, rats, rabbits, chinchillas or reptiles. Ferrets will usually consider them food, or kill them on accident during rough play. If you allow your birds, rodents, or reptiles time outside of their cage, be sure to lock your ferrets in their cage to avoid a tragedy. There have been a few isolated cases of ferrets not bothering these animals, however I would proceed with extreme caution. </div> <bR> <div> <B>6.</B> <FONT SIZE="3" COLOR="#FF0000" FACE="Verdana" ><B><U>Legality</U></B></FONT>- Are ferrets legal in your state or county? Some states may not have specific laws against ferret ownership, however the counties within the state may. Always check with animal control before relocating or purchasing a ferret. Although there are more areas than these that may not be ferret friendly, I know that California, Hawaii, Dallas, and New York City don't allow ferret ownership. Call your local animal control office to find out if ferrets are legal in your county or state.</div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <IMG SRC="1486c720.jpg" border=0 width="108" height="114" ALIGN="BOTTOM" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0"></div> <bR> <bR> </td> </tr></table></body>