I have been vaccinating my ferrets (shelter and personal) at home since
1996.  I use primarily Fervac-D, but have vaccinated using Galaxy-D with
ferrets that have had previous reactions to Fervac.  So far, none (of
course, its only 4) of the ferrets that reacted to Fervac have also
reacted to Galaxy..but I digress.
 
I premedicate my ferrets with pediatric benadryl 30 minutes prior to
vaccinating.  I only vaccinate when I have at least 1 hour of open vet
time after the time of vaccination.  I also have arrangements with both my
regular vet and an 'emergency vet' (this vets office is located 2 blocks
from my house and is somewhat ferret friendly, just not as experienced as
my regular vet).  If my ferrets begin to react (Oh, did I say that before I
give the shots, I am ready to walk out the door, including having a carrier
ready?) I make the decision which vet I am going to as I walk out the door,
based on the severity of symptoms.
 
I can't stress enough to anyone that is considering to vaccinate at home,
that you be as prepared as possible.  I have seen a couple ferrets that the
reaction was so mild (just a little redness and swelling at the site of
injection) to a full-blown anaphylactic shock in which the ferret almost
died.  Certainly keeps those high-speed driving skills current.
 
Personal opinion here - if you have a ferret react to Fervac, consider
using Galaxy.  It is an off-label use canine distemper vaccine and while
not tested for effectiveness in ferrets, I believe that it does provide
protection.  It certainly provides more than not vaccinating the animal
again, and thats usually the only other choice.  I would *never* vaccinate
a ferret that has had a previous reaction to the vaccine.
 
If you do buy your vaccines, I would also recommend using the overnight
shipment delivery, if possible.  Keeping them cold is a good thing.
Depending on your state (IIRC, some prohibit the shipment of syringes)
purchasing needles/syringes may be difficult.  Virginia, so far, doesn't
seem to care.
 
HTH
 
Lisa, Head Ferret
The Ferret Haven "By-the-Sea"
URL: http: www.kozykingdom.com/ferrethaven
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[Posted in FML issue 2836]