alphachi wrote:
>>Marshall's closest competitor would probably be Path Valley Farms, and
>>these two have little in common.
 
Bill wrote:
>OH?  Other than the research thing how do they differ?
 
That's a great question Bill!  We should work together more often<g>.  Let
me share what I've learned so far, and I'll try to keep you apprised of any
other differences as soon as they become evident.  Of course, nothing stops
you from doing your own homework in the interim.
 
I need to state that much of what is represented here is based on
correspondence between myself, some others, and Path Valley Farms, something
that Marshall would not meaningfully duplicate.  Further, to date I have
not heard a single complaint about this operation.  This does not mean
there are none, just that *I* wasn't able to uncover any and have not heard
of any conflicting reports.
 
What I appreciated throughout the correspondence was the apparent candor,
willingness to answer difficult questions, and general demeanor of it's
staff.
 
1) Path Valley DOES NOT KILL their retired breeders, but uses them as "baby
   sitters".  They are spayed and placed in with the kits, this also helps
   the kits wean.  These jills are handled often so they are calm.
 
2) Path Valley generally only breeds their jills ONCE a year.
 
3) Path Valley COMMUNICATES to it's customer base.
 
4) Path Valley SHIPS AT 6-7 WEEKS, this is *only* two weeks earlier than
   Marshall according to a very large retailer.  However, every week counts
   and it's a step in the right direction for some.
 
5) Path Valley clearly states it DOES NOT SELL TO THE FUR TRADE.
 
6) Path Valley DOES NOT SELL BEAGLES FOR RESEARCH.
 
7) YOU CAN VISIT Path Valley and they will happily introduce you to their
   kits.
 
8) And as stated before, Path Valley NEITHER SELLS NOR PROMOTES THE USE OF
   FERRETS FOR RESEARCH.
 
Wow, these are some major differences!
 
As Erin wisely stated, and others have also expressed the desire to find
alternative sources for ferret babies.  It appears as though Path Valley
Farms does not mind the spotlight so much and this is generally a healthy
sign.
 
You know, many of us are not in the "ferret trade", and therefore even
though Path Valley has been in business for 9 years, it does not surprise
me that many are not familiar with these differences.  However, I am
curious how such a vocal breeder would hear so little as to not be aware
of these striking differences between two large recognized concerns.
 
best wishes,
until next time,
alphachi
[Posted in FML issue 2242]