We want to be sure that we pass on as much information as possible as
it occurs on the illness FACT is dealing with in Connecticut. We will
use both the FML as well as our website to publish whatever we can when
we have verifiable information to share.

Once again, I can't begin to thank all who have contacted Vanessa and
I with offers of information as well as moral, spiritual and financial
support! When the chips are down, the ferret community is
extraordinary!

First, we still do not have a confirmed diagnosis. However, we are
proceeding with treatment on the basis that this is canine distemper
(CDV). I wish I could say otherwise...but all current indications are
that this is what we are going to be dealing with.

With referrals from a couple of sources, most especially Washington
Ferret Shelter, we have placed all our ferrets on a vitamin and
antibiotic therapy. We will also be adding interferon therapy once the
meds are in hand next week. All results will be shared with the ferret
and veterinary community.

As for the 2 ferrets that are at our vet in supportive therapy, one is
doing very well, SO FAR. He has actually improved. While optimistic,
we also want to be realistic.

We are very hopeful that we are ahead of the curve on this. But who
knows??

Our second ferret is an elderly female. She is comfortable, but while
stable, we are not seeing any change but it's only been 24 hours.

Sadly, we may have a possible 3rd case.

I went and took pictures of the 2 at the vets. You can see them at:
http://www.ferret-fact.org/DistmeperImages.htm
(Yes - it is mis-spelled, but I will "repair" once we have a confirmed
diagnosis.)

Shelter volunteers, adopters, and visitors are in the process of being
alerted. We will also notify area vets once we have some definitive's.

Ann Gruden
Ferret Association of Connecticut

[Posted in FML 7103]