I'm the Sharon that Sukie referred to in yesterday's post.  I don't
generally sign my name to my posts (I sign SP) because there are other
"Sharons" on the list and this seemed the best way to avoid confusion.
Just look for my e-mail address (can't miss it), somehow it got capitalised
so it sticks out like a sore thumb.
 
When I first started doing state follow-ups it was because our club wanted
to do more ferret information shows and I wasn't comfortable with our
currant laws.  It now seems to have become my quest.  I can't explain it...
I think about Kodo or Rocky or what has happened to countless other nameless
ferrets.  What might have happened to Phoenix if the ferret community hadn't
rallied?  I have a very good imagination.  I have no trouble at all
imagining these poor little ones, taken from their loving humans and
playmates, shivering in fear, then killed, decapitated, and tested for NO
GOOD REASON!!  I then go cuddle mine and promise that I'll never let that
happen to them.  The only way to keep this promise is to do what I can to
CHANGE THE LAW!!!
 
I advise caution when asking your vet for updated information.  I have
corrected several vets in my area who have stated that the law has already
changed.  Many believe that the NYS Health Dept.  has the power to set these
laws themselves.  In some states they do, but not in NY.
 
If I understand things correctly, the reason this was so hard to get started
is because it's been many, many years since any changes were made to the
state's rabies recommendations and, frankly, most officials were stumped as
to where to even start.  We've cleared that hurdle.
 
This week Pete Reid from Marshall Farms will be compiling the legislative
information he needs for his meeting with a local Assemblymen.  As they were
very active supporters of recinding the NYS licensing requirements, they are
familiar with our legislative process.  I'm hopeful that once this gets
rolling, it will go quick.
 
Thanks to all who have worked so hard to bring all this information together
for the ferret community to use in a time of need; Sukie, Linda, Diane and
countless others who's names I don't even know.  Information really IS
priceless!
 
I will post with information as I receive it.
 
SP
[Posted in FML issue 2300]