>Robert Ivey <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Contribution to MF debate
>I told myself to stay out of this debate, I rarely post to the FML, but
>this whole MF issue seems to be out of control.
 
Well, I am glad you felt so compelled to write.  I enjoyed reading your post
and you bring up some very good points.  So let me ask you a question,
whether a company is private or public, are they any less responsible to the
community or their practice?  In return I will answer several questions you
pose from my perspective.  On why MF?  Because they are the biggest single
source of ferrets in the US.  They set the pace.  Affect them, and you
effect all others.  Its the domino effect and it works.  By insuring MF
treats their ferrets well and breeds responsibly, we will be affecting the
largest single group of ferrets.  Would MF funded studies be acceptable.
Well, my proposal is for them to create a fund for the studies, not conduct
them.  However, they are certainly free to do so providing these studies
follow the same ethical guidelines all animal studies must follow.  And of
course, all data are subject to peer review.  Finally, why retailers?
Simple, 10 retailers putting pressure on MF = 1000 private individuals doing
the same.  It is this type of boycott that is historically most effective.
 
>From:    Sheba Williamson <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: MF ?, Fert ?
>In my opinion and it may or may not be worth the cyberspace, but from all
>that I've read NO ONE is actually qualified to speak on beh alf of MF.
 
I couldn't agree more.  And you bring up an interesting point.  Nice post!
 
>From:    "marie i. schatz" <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: MF
>No.  Its cruel.  And that's why I wont buy a Marshall Farms, Path Valley or
>any other big farm ferret.  We may not know the answer to early
>neuter/adrenal, or how many and at what age they put down their breeders
>etc. etc.
 
Geez, I am very happy so many are willing to post their concerns about MF.
Great post!  I think we can do a lot more than simply choose not to by their
products in some quiet solitude of satisfaction.  I think we can make a
difference!
 
Swamp wrote:
>I don't see any way of intimidating MF, but if they're presented with a
>workable system of tracking ferrets they just might listen.
>There's been a lot of talk lately about potential cooperation among the
>various ferret groups. Well, here's another opportunity to show it can
>happen. I don't think it will, but wouldn't mind being proven wrong.
 
Why do feel MF cannot be persuaded to listen?  We never really tried.
 
Thanks again for all the postings,
 
I am glad these critters are not being pushed aside this time.  I am
hoping something concrete comes of this.
 
For Kodo and all the ferrets with no name
best wishes,
alphachi
[Posted in FML issue 1989]