Christine, as you or many might already know, I think ferrets in
particular are awfully therapeutic for individuals with special needs.  I
believe this because ferrets, more so than many animals, are such high
maintenance.  One MUST clean up that poop more than once a day.  One MUST
water this animal each day or more.  One MUST change that liter.  One
MUST feed each day.  One must clean that cage.  One must constantly
clean up and groom this animal.  One must this, must that, on a regular
schedule.  Some situations require even more attention throughout the
day.  And as you know, ferrets need supervision whenever they are out
playing.  It's not like you can let them out in your house and not pay
attention to them all day and night long.  Although a dog initiates so
much socialization with humans, they are pretty independent and low
maintence really when compared to the supervision required and house
cleaning associated with ferrets.  This constant, this consistency,
helps people at times with physical needs (getting them to move little
by little throughout the day).  However, I feel like like this animal
has an even larger impact on those psychologically affected, if they can
tolerate this pet and are able to care for it.  Just like you say, the
joyfulness and mischievous activity is always there to share with or
without you throughout their lives.  They act this way often all the way
to the death.  And this is very stimulating, uninvasive, and inspiring
to those with any sort of mental problem.
 
Wolfy
http://wolfysluv.jacksnet.com
[Posted in FML issue 4623]