I've noticed a lot of talk on ferret vaccines lately.  My guys have
all had reactions to Ferevac-D, the only ferret distemper vac we carry
at work.  My guys have had three years of vaccinations so far.  First
year only my male had a reaction, bad diarrhea, but with fluids,
antihistamines, and steriods, he recovered quickly.  The second year,
no reactions.  This year all three had reactions.  My girls had mild
reactions, but my male had a severe reaction, I was afraid I was going to
loose him.  He wasn't 100% better until after about a month.  That was
the scariest month of my life.  I'm now afraid to vaccinate them against
distemper.  I work for a vet and already we've seen two cases of canine
distemper in puppies, luckily I didn't have to work on them.  My vets
know not to ask my help.  I'm a bit leery of trying the Merial vaccine.
I've never had a problem with the rabies, nor have I seen a reaction in
our few ferret patients.  Also when my guy had a severe reaction, he was
premedicated with antihistamines and steriods.  My vet felt so bad when
he went down so fast..but his quick thinking I think saved him.  What
would you do if it was your babies?  I hate seeing them sick.  They are
all pretty young, 3 & 4, and so spunky!  Thanks for any advice.
 
Dooks,
~Jamie~ R.V.T
Tazz (sable male), Mica (sable female), Lilah (REW female)
[Posted in FML issue 4445]