As ferret caretakers, the following rights are recognized as integral to
the ethical and moral treatment of _Mustela_furo_, the domesticiated
ferret:
 
1) The ferret has the right to life.  In those instances where euthanasia is
seen as the only moral and ethical option, then it is to be performed with
dignity and compassion and in a painless manner.
 
2) The ferret has the right to professional veterinary care and treatment,
as well as medical treatments that prevent disease, such as heartworm,
rabies and distemper, among others.
 
3) The ferret has the right to clean water and nutritious food, presented
in a sanitary manner.
 
4) The ferret has the right to live in a clean and stimulating environment
commensurate to its intelligence and curiosity.
 
5) The ferret has the right to positive physical contact with people and
other ferrets.
 
6) The ferret has the right to daily exercise and to explore its
environment.
 
7) The ferret has the right to be a ferret; not a dog nor a cat.
 
8) The ferret has the right to live in a secure and stress-free environment,
which includes places to hide when sleeping.
 
9) The ferret has the right to be bred in a safe, moral and ethical manner,
with the assurance offspring from such breeding will also be treated
ethically and morally.
 
10) The ferret has the right to defend itself when afraid, without fear of
judgement or reprisal.
 
Bob C and 20 MO Legal ferteagles
[Posted in FML issue 2352]