Thanks for the kind words Jeff.

We usually try to have a few copies of Ferrets for Dummies on hand,
just in case. However, I usually push people to get it before they
even come to see us. I really like to suggest that they get the kids
involved in the research and then "sell" their parents on the idea of
getting a ferret. Most parents like this idea, since the ferret is
usually "for the kids", and the kids like it since they get to actually
take an active part. If the kids don't want to do the research, then
Mom and Dad need to think about who the ferret is really for.

Talking to people about how much it costs to own a ferret is never fun,
but I usually try to work it towards "A fairly high percentage of the
ferrets that get surrendered to us are because they need medical care,
and their owners can't afford it." I list the three primary reasons for
surrenders: 1 -- divorce, 2 -- kids off to college, and 3 -- can't
afford the vet care. Most people that are considering adoption usually
think of themselves as animal advocates and would hate to "fail" the
animal, so it gets them to think it through completely. I would much
rather not get an adoption that to get one into a home where they don't
provide the medical care.

We all know that there an awful lot of people out there that see a
ferret somewhere and then just have to have one, without any knowledge
of what they are getting into. Add on to that number, the people that
may know what they are getting into, but don't have their home ready.
Once they have made up their minds, they go full speed ahead. They get
the ferret, the cage, the food, a hammock, and a couple of toys. That
is exactly why I want them to read Ferrets for Dummies first. I've
gotten a lot of comments from people about how glad they are that they
had a chance to think through how to prepare for their new arrivals.
It doesn't work every time, but if it works once, it is worth it.

Good luck-

Larry

[Posted in FML 6945]