To Amy:
 
Call the breeder you got the ferret from and tell them you need them
to take it back.  All REPUTABLE breeders have a clause in the adoption
contract stating that if you ever need to rehome the ferret, the breeder
must be informed and will take it back.  If they refuse, please post their
name to the FML as they obviously aren't reputable.  A really reputable
breeder would also take the other two and find a home for them.
 
To Janett:
 
The pet store is a BAD place for a sick ferret.  It's stressful to the
ferret, and you are also running the risk of passing on a disease to
every other animal in the store.
 
On ferret baths:
 
A healthy ferret shouldn't need a bath more than once a year.  Fresh
bedding each week, or even more often is all they need.  They are like
cats, as long as they have clean bedding to absorb the oils in their fur,
they will keep themselves clean.  Bathing will actually increase oil
stimulation, and with it comes additional odor.
 
On the itchy ferret:
 
It's prime shedding time.  When they shed and then regrow a new coat, they
often itch more.  If the itching doesn't stop in a few weeks, it's time
to go to the vet.  ALso, if you have dry heat in the dorm that could be a
problem, you might want to run a humidifier.
 
To Tamara:
 
I see you are in VT--the closest reputable private breeder to you would be
Alicia Drakiotes at Ferretwise in NH.  [log in to unmask]
 
Reputable private breeders test for ADV (she does) and do not ship.
 
About Ferrets online (FerretEx):
 
It appears that the owner of this establishment is:
 
Alan Schaeffer
[log in to unmask]
PO Box 208
Cranbrook, BC V1C 4H7
CANADA
250 417-2700
 
Another address and phone might be:
 
[log in to unmask]
PO Box 27
Skookumchuck, BC V0B 2E0
CA
250 422-0333
 
[DA]
[Posted in FML issue 3593]