This comes up every year or so, presented as if it's a brand-new issue.
I'm not going to comment on whether this is or isn't an appropriate way
to train doctors to care for preemies. I'm just not qualified.

What I can report from personal, direct experience is that these
ferrets are not harmed or mistreated.

We have at times gotten ferrets directly from this program at UW, when
they can't place them directly in homes (which they try to do in order
to not burden shelters). In every case, they have been healthy, showing
no signs of any injury. They are well adjusted, and don't show any of
the personality traits associated with abused animals.

My vet has inspected the facility and reviewed their procedures. The
ferrets are under anesthesia before they are intubated. The procedure
is exactly the same as is used in ferret surgery.

Now, if you want to continue discussing the best methods for training
doctors, and whether an animal should ever be used, have at it. Just
stick to the facts, and don't distort them to make it appear to be
cruelty when it's not.

Kevin Farlee

[Posted in FML 7206]