In light of the advertisements here for upcoming ferret shows and ferret
olympics I feel it is in the best interests of the FERRETS to make sure
everyone is aware of the risk of Aleutian Disease Virus (ADV).  This is a
highly contagious and potentially deadly disease.  I have followed it's
course since spring of '98 when a shelter in south Texas was hit with ADV.
The disease is believed to have been brought in by 4 rescued ferrets from
another state.  At that time, ADV was confirmed in only 4 states, now, only
two years later, it has been confirmed in at least 10 states.  No one can
deny that it is spreading, and it is irresponsible for anyone to minimize
the potential for infection to ferrets who attend shows and olympics as
well as those who visit breeding facilities or handle ferrets at pet
stores.
 
The September/October issue of Ferrets magazine carries and article on ADV
written by Dr. Karen L. Rosenthal.  In this article, she says,
 
   "The lack of recognizable ADV symptoms is a big reason why this disease
   is so scary to ferret owners.  Some ferrets have apparently died from
   ADV, while looking rather healthy, and without clinical signs...
   ferrets can have ADV, and even shed the virus, without showing any
   outward signs of illness."
 
Dr. Rosenthal goes on to warn ferret owners,
 
   "If an ADV-infected ferret appears healthy while it is shedding the
   disease, it isn't hard to imagine how easy it would be for that ferret
   to infect other ferrets at ferret shows, pet stores or other ferret
   gathering places."
 
This means that, even though a vet may be standing at the doorway examining
every single ferret that comes in, it is very possible for a ferret
carrying ADV to "pass the exam" and enter the show because there may be
no outward symptoms.
 
Vets have confirmed to me that breeders and other ferret owners in the
Dallas/Ft Worth area now have ferrets carrying the disease.  How can you be
certain these will not be present at any show you attend?  Do you want to
risk your ferret's lives for a little fun?  Please think seriously before
you decide.  Remember also, people who attend shows, etc. may travel from
and to all parts of the country, there is no guarantee that they are not
coming in contact with ADV (and other diseases as well) along the way.
Breeders may buy, sell or trade stock with other breeders across the
country or even across ocean... think of the potential for spread of the
disease in this scenario.
 
In the article, Dr. Rosenthal says the spread of ADV "may take many routes.
The virus can spread by infected urine, saliva, blood, feces or nasal
discharge.  It can also live on clothing and caging material."
 
This means that someone who owns a ferret carrying the disease, though the
ferret is not present, could bring the disease into the show on their
shoes, hands, or clothing.  Even something as obscure as a single ferret
hair could transmit the disease to an unsuspecting owner and thus to their
ferret.  This also means that items sold at shows could carry the disease
if the items have come in contact with ferrets carrying ADV.
 
For further information on ADV... PLEASE pick up a copy of the
September/October issue of Ferrets magazine.  Read Dr. Rosenthal's article
thoroughly so that you have a more complete overview of this disease in
order to protect your precious babies!
 
Kisses to the fuzzies.
Trish
Director, Ferrets First Rescue & Shelter
[Posted in FML issue 3133]