There have been a lot of questions, speculation and justifiable concern
about the decision of PETsMART to test market the sale of ferret kits.
 
Will they be selling Marshall Farms kits in hundreds of their stores?
Will there be even more underage kits suffering from prolapsed rectums
and other problems from being weaned, altered and shipped too early?
Will kits be kept in inappropriate housing cared for by untrained sales
people?  Will new owners be unprepared and unaware of the amount of care
these critters require?
 
The answers to these questions might surprise you.  Rather than speculate
further, come to the 2005 International Ferret Symposium(r) in St.
Louis, MO, April 29-May 1.  Mike Staitman DVM of PETsMART's corporate
office will be attending the Symposium.  Though not giving a formal
presentation, Dr. Mike will be hosting a table topic on their ferret
program, and also providing information for shelters on how to take
advantage of PETsMART Charities' programs.
 
A reminder of our Respect for Others policy: The purpose of this
Symposium is to learn and engage in constructive discussions.  We expect
there may be disagreements on some issues, but we ask that people show
respect for each other and for differing viewpoints.  Anyone who cannot
maintain civility will be asked to leave and no refund will be issued.
 
Check our web site for registration information.
 
Linda Iroff
International Ferret Congress
http://www.ferretcongress.org
[Posted in FML issue 4790]