Hi Mike!
 
My boys know their names - whether they listen or not is an entirely different
thing though!! Gushi and Buster answer most readily when called; Nik is the
head-ferret and therefore seems to believe that he doesn't have to pay
attention when his name is used - especially when he's doing something he's
not supposed to! Geisha is a lost & found and doesn't answer at all. She was
about a year when we found her and I've had her for about four months - maybe
in time. They ALL come madly when I shake the raisin container so at least I
can get their attention somehow!
 
As for recognizing owners, I have gone away for a week or so a couple times,
and when I got back, everyone was definitely excited to see me. Gushi is a
big baby when it comes to going outside - he likes it but wants to be carried.
I have put him down or handed him to someone else but he wants to come to me
or my boyfriend soon afterwards.
 
I guess it depends alot on the individual, how much you use their name and
maybe a little patience/time. Good luck and happy ferret dancing!
 
George and Dave + the gang of Gushi, Nik, Buster and Geisha!!
 
[Posted in FML issue 0887]