Re:  Delta Society
 
The Delta Society is devoted to the promotion and understanding of the human
animal bond.  It is a collection of veterinarians, psychologists, educators,
pet owners, pet trainers (such as seeing eye dogs and companion dogs), etc.
It is a "gentle" group that has done a tremendous amount of good for both
animals and people.  They are against animal experimentation, but the main
interest of their group in the human animal bond.  THere are many local
chapters of the organization that you may want to contact.  They have an
excellent publication and I think do some really good work.  They have a
national conference once a year (lots of fun because there are lots of
animals there.  You can find out more by contacting the national organization
at
Delta Society
P.O. Box 1080
Renton, Washington  98057
206-226-7357
FAX 206-235-1076
 
RE: Lab work for ferrets
 
I recommend a complete blood cell count annually for all ferrets over 6
months of age to help screen for lymphoma (it doesn't diagnose the disease,
but can indicate if further testing is necessary to diagnose it)
After 3 years of age I also recommend MINIMALLY a fasting blood glucose to
screen for insulinoma.  Fast your ferret at least 4 hours but not more than 6
hours prior to the test.  This should be done every 6 months.  Other testing
such as X-rays, and blood chemistries and urinalysis should be done at your
veterinarians discretion depending on the condition of your pet.
Testing in this manner has diagnosed countless ferrets early in disease in
our practice and has been invaluable in managing disease problems in ferrets.
Susan Brown, D.V.M.
 
[Posted in FML issue 0799]