Here's another issue to add to the pot.
 
While *we* know, and other animal lovers may know the difference between a
play nip, a taste, an accident, or a snag, we should never assume that
anyone else does.
 
If, while taking your ferret out in public, it's likely to do anything that
can be *percieved* as a bite from someone, even if it doesn't draw blood,
there is need for caution.
 
The most important thing is to know your ferret, obviously.  Know how they
are around strange people and strange situations.  Are they likely to play
nip at someone they don't know?  Do you know if they have any aversions to
certain cents?
 
The second most important thing, in my opinion, is to explain both ferret
biting in general (all things with teeth have the potential to bite, that
most animals will bite if they are hurt or feel threatened, young animals
are more likely to bite because of natural mouthieness and may have not yet
learned acceptable behavior, etc.).  THEN explain *your* ferret's behaviour,
before it happens.  "When she jumps sideways at you and nips at your feet,
she's playing, not attacking".  While the site of a friend dancing around
the room with a fuzzy firmly attached to a sock may be funny to us, it can
be scarey for someone not familiar with such antics!  Warn people that your
fuzzy does not like such-and-such scent, etc.
 
Ah, I could tell stories, but I don't want this to be too long, so I'll save
them:)
 
Dooks!
 
Sue (listening for little ferret sneezes)
Rocky (mom, play with me, I want a raisin)
Rosa (mom, give me the TRASH!)
[Posted in FML issue 2190]