>From:    [log in to unmask]
>Subject: ?? for Breeders
>BUT, how come I've never found anything mentioned (at least in my research
>so far) that describes the attitude changes that hit the jills?
 
We've never seen attitude changes in jills from estrus.  However we have in
many from pregnancy, particularly toward the end.  All getting the nesting
urge to some degree and many try to mother any convenient ferret (or human).
 
Some get really really protective right at the end.  We've some real sweet
jills that get "hormonal" for a few weeks before and after birth.  We
actually need gloves with a couple.  But after a few weks and definitely by
weaning they are as sweet and gentle as ever.
 
Surprised a bit you saw wht we've seen at the end of pregnancy in yours at
estrus.
 
>From:    Gooblet <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Pet Stores
 
A bit hostile in reaction...  At least you didn't use our name.
 
>So, what does that prove?  I know literally *hundreds* of people who do
>this in dogs and in cats.
 
Well yes.  Ive now learned that some do.  Its awfully expensive and no-one
has any idea of what to test for in ferrets so it doesn't happen with any
ferret breeder.
 
Some dog breeds have known defects and enough research has been done to know
what to look for.  Glad that some German Shepherd breeders can test for hip
problems early.  Hopefully these breeder's of Persian and exotic short hair
cats will stop with the overly short noses that cause breathing difficulties
as well.  You also know some rather well off breeders.
 
>Why not??  Do you go out and buy a car that might break down after a month
>because you don't want the best?
 
Well lets calm done and see what was meant.  First what is the best?  Most
ferret breeders talk about the best as their championship lines.  As close
to perfect in every way that show judges look at them.  But not everyone
shows ferrets.  If you are buying a ferret to have as a pet with you
children do you really need a perfectly white headed panda?  Probably not.
A run of the mill sable with no distinguishing markings might be the pet for
you.  It doesn't matter if the mask is crooked or if the ferrets is a touch
chubby if all it will do is sleep on the sofa and chase crickets in your
pantry.  It doesn't make sense to pay $300 dollars for the very best show
ferret.
 
>you want the best value for your money
 
You yourself pointed out exactly what we meant.  Around here you can
actually get good solid kits from a pet store for $89.  Far cheaper than any
local breeder.  And without the expense of a neuter or spay in the future.
This is the best value for your money if all you want is the typical good
pet ferret.
 
If you get a ferret from a rescue (which we encourage - remember we run a
rescue and contribute to other local shelters all the time) you also get
peace of mind.  If you don't want that for some reason or if the local
rescues are empty (quite common) than its either pet store or breeder.  Oh
and although the closest store that sells ferrets to our house is the $89
store we've had only one turned in that came from there and that was because
the extremely strict military father decided that the son had to turn it in
the very day after it was purchased.  A discipline thing.  Not your typical
neglected ferret.
 
But part of your message shows you've been misled...
 
>I want assurance that she will not come down with some preventable crippling
>disease before the age of two.
 
Anyone who assures you that their ferrets won't have disease or cancer are
lying.  It also shows you've bought too much into the lies about pet store
ferrets.  The vast majority of pet store kits are great ferrets.  Ours all
were.  You also seem to imply that pet store ferrets aren't smart or good
looking.  Our very first ferret was a pet store Marshall kit that was among
the very best and smartest ferrets around - not our opinion but that of the
various show judges in AFA, LIFE and independants that gave her so many
ribbons and a best in show even.  And all of that showing after the age of 5
when typical breeder ferrets are typically retired and ratty looking.
 
>Education and experience is out there for people who don't just sit back
>and wait for it to come to them or close their eyes to it.
 
A good point.  And does not contradict what we wrote.  Education and
experience is everywhere including pet stores if you look carefully.  No
particular sourcehas a monopoly on ferret information.
 
Diane used to show German Shepherds.  We have "show quality" Pomeranians
from a local breeder.  We do know where we're coming from.  But we'd never
seen a Shiba Inu (think I got that right) until we came across one in a pet
store but now we know of a local breeder.
 
bill and diane killian
zen and the art of ferrets
http://www.zenferret.com/
mailto:[log in to unmask]
[Posted in FML issue 1834]