Here is the letter I sent to the USDA via EDOCKET, which is very easy
to use. EDOCKET can be reached directly at
<http://docket.epa.gov/edkfed/do/EDKStaffCollectionDetailView
?objectId=0b0007d4809252bb>
 
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I am writing in support of the petition to create ferret specific
regulations to govern the handling, care, treatment and transportation of
domestic ferrets.  Such regulations are greatly needed and long overdue.
 
Ferrets have become increasingly popular pets over the last couple of
decades.  As a result, there is increasing demand at pet stores to sell
ferret kits, and thus increasing pressures on ferret farms to ship more
kits early and quickly.  Unfortunately, this is to the detriment of the
animals.  They are often taken from their mother and littermates at too
young an age, spayed and neutered, and then shipped before surgical
incisions are healed or they have the dentition to handle the kibbled
food they are now forced to eat.
 
The key provision that should be part of these regulations is a minimum
age of transport.  A key way to determine this age is by dentition --
by 8 weeks of age, the easily identified canines have erupted along with
the molars necessary to eat kibble.
 
Other provisions should protect ferrets from extremes in temperatures,
provide for frequent access to food and fresh water, allow for adequate
space for exercise, and provide social interaction.  As intelligent,
curious animals, being stuck in a small cage all day with no
opportunities to exercise, play and interact is like jail to them.
 
Social interaction is especially important so that the animals will be
well adjusted and make good pets.  Too often ferrets end up in shelters
because they have not learned how to interact with humans.
 
Linda Iroff
International Ferret Congress
http://www.ferretcongress.org
[Posted in FML issue 4970]