Pam Wrote:
>I am interested in finding out if anyone is aware of any places (states,
>counties, etc) that require permits as a way to help educate new ferret
>owners.  I'm not looking for places where permits are required for the
>protection of *the public* but rather for the protection of the ferrets.
>(Snip ) What I'm looking for are places that use the permit/license as
>a way to pass along information on proper husbandry, maybe even vet
>referrals, etc..."
 
Hi Pam,
We recently had the By_Law in our small Canadian Town changed to read that
Exotic pet owners ( not ferrets ) need to obtain a permit from the town
that has to be signed by an Ontario licensed vet.  It doesn't cost the pet
owner anything and all they have to do is prove to the vet that they have
researched the animal they wish to keep ( food, husbandry, housing etc ) by
answering a few questions.  It also assures the town that the animal will
not be left to rot in their backyard because there is no vet qualified or
willing to care for it in the area.  Will people circumvent the by law?
Of course.  Will it cut down on impulse purchases of pets in our town.  I
think so.  And we think it is a way of ensuring good pet ownership without
violating anyones rights.  Let me know if you would like a copy of the by
law and accompanying pet permit I can email it to you.
 
Meighan
 
[Posted in FML issue 3428]