The concern about ferrets (Al & Jasmine) in the classroom in Woburn High
School has turned from a worrisome situation to a wonderful educational
opportunity.  With many emails bouncing back and forth between
organizations and individuals, a representative of Massachusett Ferret
Friends was finally able to seek out an appropriate contact person at
the school.
 
A long and positive phone conversation took place between the MaFF rep
and a school housemaster.  He was very aware of the animals in the
classroom, they apparently had belonged to a student who could no longer
keep them so they became part of the curriculum.  He explained the
Zoology program that WHS conducts with the students.  A lot of education
and research takes place with the students on the proper care of the
domestic ferret and other animals within their program, so the education
is there.  He was also very receptive to having a MaFF representative
come in and discuss the proper care and handling of the ferrets with the
staff and students.  He also requested any literature MaFF could provide
to add to their library.
 
The ferrets are not left unattended at the school over the weekends, on
the rare occasion that they have been, he himself had gone in to make
sure they were okay.  Additionally a custodian is there after hours and
he also checks the animals.  The level of concern for these animals is so
great, that the custodian had even called the housemaster one night at
midnight to tell him that one of the ferrets did not look quite right.
The housemaster got in his car and drove to the school to check.
 
These animals seem very well cared for and happy.  The school staff and
students are learning about the care of these animals, and they care
about these animals.  The school is thrilled to have additional resources
for education.  During the site visit, a MaFF member will be able to
assess the situation first hand, and address any concerns they have at
that time and share some basics that may not be as easily learned by
reading.  Such as holding a squirmy ferret during nail clipping, what
teeth grinding looks like and means, diet, germs etc.
 
This has actually turned into a wonderful educational opportunity for all
involved!  A very happy ending and to those involved job well done.
 
Amy Robbin
[Posted in FML issue 4512]