Attention Veterinarians and Ferret Owners
 
 
Dr. Z. Mills, Senior Staff Veterinarian with Veterinary Services of Rhone
Merieux, Inc., asked if I would post the following information for
veterinarians and ferret owners. It may be re-posted on any other board
providing it is posted in its entirety and no changes are made in its
content.
 
 
Although vaccine reactions in ferrets associated with the administration of
currently available canine distemper and rabies vaccines are very rare, they
can be very serious.  Anaphylaxis, with severe diarrhea and collapse can
occur with any biological agent.  Because of this, Rhone Merieux believes
that any vaccination should be performed under the supervision of a licensed
veterinarian.
 
In order to reduce the potential for an allergic reaction, Dr. Mills
recommends administration of rabies and distemper vaccinations at separate
time intervals.  He suggests a minimum of two (2) weeks between each
vaccination.  Should a ferret show symptoms of an allergic reaction to any
vaccination the owner/veterinarian should weigh the benefits against the risk
of any future inoculations.  If the decision is to have vaccine administered,
the owner should make sure the veterinarian is aware of the previous
reaction. The veterinarian will likely premedicate the ferret prior to a
vaccination.  Afterwards, the ferret should be kept at the veterinarian's
office for observation for the remainder of the day.
 
Rhone Merieux is always interested in collecting data on any apparent vaccine
reaction. Veterinarians are asked to fax Dr. Mills at (706) 543-1667 with the
following information on the ferret.
 
 
Age
Sex
Intact or altered
Early or mature before alteration
Weight
Color
Past history of vaccination
Serial number of vaccine
Concurrent vaccinations or medications given
Date administered
 
 
posted by:
Dick Bossart
4 Li'l Paws Ferret Shelter
Merrimack, NH
[Posted in FML issue 0982]