I'm re-posting this information because I've seen quite
a few postings lately from new parents with biting
problems. I highly recommend trying this method as
an alternative to pain therapy; it worked for me, and
for others I know.
 
1. Go down to your local pet store and pick up a bottle
of BITTER APPLE. It's this stuff they use on show dogs to
keep them from licking/biting their fur. It tastes mildly bitter
to humans -- ferrets can't stand it.
 
2. Spray the Bitter Apple all over one hand, and play with your
ferret with the other hand. When he starts biting your clean hand,
give him a taste of the other one and say "No." or "No biting."
 
Nero was a chronic nipper, especially when he'd get excited during
play, and this method cured him _instantly_ of his taste for human flesh.
Once in a while he forgets and gets ahold of my hand -- all I have to say is
"No biting!" and he drops it like it was on fire.
 
REGARDING LEGAL STATUS IN CALIFORNIA:
I just read the bill status for AB2497, the bill to legalize ferrets
in CA. The motion to reconsider has been continued until April 7
(I believe this means that the vote that was to take place yesterday
has been postponed until Thursday). There's still time to call the
abstaining Assembly-persons. Does anyone have those phone
numbers?
 
Marti
 
[Posted in FML issue 0785]