> Date:   Wed, 14 Jul 1993 13:05:39 -0400
> From:   Anne Callot <[log in to unmask]>
> Subject: What are ferrets?
>
> Hello, I'm not sure who's getting this, but, I saw your thread(s) in the
> PETS forum on CIS, and wanted some infor.
>
> What are ferrets? Are they rodents? Where can I get one? Are people who are
> allergic to dogs and cats ok with ferrets? (I have rats, and they work
> well.)
>
> Any references you can lead me to?
 
Hi, Anne --
 
You didn't have to take the step of subscribing to the FML to find out
about ferrets -- the Small Mammals section (S11) has active discussions of
ferrets going on all the time -- but since you're here... <g>
 
Ferrets are not rodents, they are members of the mustelid family.  They
are related to weasels, otters, minks and ermines.  Ferrets can be
obtained from local breeders, ferret shelters or pet stores -- though many
people get their first ferret from pet stores, it's preferable to adopt
from a shelter or to go through a local breeder.  If you're serious about
wanting a ferret, we can help you find a shelter or breeder.
 
However -- ferrets are NOT for everyone.  They are not a no-care pet, and
require a great deal of attention when they are young.
 
Many people who are allergic to dogs and/or cats do not have problems with
ferrets, but some do.  My husband and I are both allergic to cats, but not
to ferrets (we have five ferrets).
 
You ask about references -- since you found the back issues of the FML in
the Small Mammals library (Lib11), you might as well start there! <g>
There is a great deal of information to be found in those issues.  The
best reference to be found in bookstores is "Ferrets," by Chuck and Fox
Morton (Barron's, 1985).
 
If you have any more questions, feel free to ask away, or to post a
message on Small Mammals/S11.
 
Oops!  I just noticed that in your message, you left your address, which
is California.  Ferrets are currently illegal in California, though there
is an active movement to legalize them.  If you get a ferret, you may have
difficulty finding a vet willing to treat it, and you also face the
possibility of having your pet confiscated by the state.
 
You should contact the California Domestic Ferret Association, P.O. Box
1868, Healdsburg, CA 95448, 707-431-2277
 
---------------------
Katie Fritz
Small Mammals Section Leader/CompuServe Pets Forum
Internet: [log in to unmask]  CIS: 71257,3153
 
[Posted in FML issue 0522]