FERRET-SEARCH@LISTSERV.FERRETMAILINGLIST.ORG
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Date: | Mon, 22 Jul 1996 08:38:00 -0400 |
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Becca Simpson's query on oils for ear-cleaning: yes, baby oil is fine, and,
yes, the scent may tick 'em off. But life is stern and earnest.
Cliping toenails: linatone on the belly. Works for my guys every time.
They're suckers for the stuff.
At least two posts in the last couple of months mentioned the stress of
medicating/hydrating a sick ferret. Forthwith, a zen-of-ferreting
technique.
PRECEPT 1: Do not equate kindness with comfort. Medicating is a
kindness. It is not comfortable. Center yourself and your purposes:
breathe deeply while repeating, "This ferret. This medicine. This
ferret will be medicated."
PRECEPT 2: Place the patient on a kitchen counter or table. (The higher
the better: as for yourself, suspended from heaven and rooted in earth.)
Orient the ferret West-East, head facing the east (right side: reverse if
you're left-handed.)
PRECEPT 3: The Grip. Using the left hand, firmly and gently grip the
ferret's head by making a collar out of the little finger and thumb. The
ferret's breathing should (obviously) not be impaired, but he should not
be able to slide out of the grip. The ring-finger and index-finger
should gently lift the upper lips and pry open the jaws. The middle
finger should assist wherever necessary, usually in depressing the
tongue. Tilt the head back.
PRECEPT 4: Medicate. Using a dropper, insert medicine. The ferret will
swallow. If the medicine is unpleasant you may need to momentarily
tighten the collar (see Precept 3) to keep the patient from backing out
of your grip.
PRECEPT 5: Recovery. The ferret will now defecate in a corner to
demonstrate displeasure. It is otherwise unharmed. Call a therapist for
yourself.
Peace,
Otter
[Posted in FML issue 1639]
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