A lot of negative comments have been made about Zoo's Ferret Sanctuary
over the years. I listened to people who really didn't know what they
were talking about. There were a lot of assumptions made. There seemed
to be a big issue with her IRS non-profit status (though I never have
understood what that has to do with the quality of care she provides).
Then, I talked to several people who had actually been there several
times, seen her operation, and talked to her. They had a very different
story to tell. After that, I took it upon myself to learn more about
her operation and have completely changed my mind.

What I have learned is that Zoo/Cathy operates her sanctuary within her
home. The ferrets are part of the home and are members of the family.
They have time out of the cage until they are ready to go back to bed,
with large amounts of space to play in. They are not warehoused in a
separate building or facility. They are not forced to play in playpens
or other small areas. They have all the space and attention they could
ever ask for. The "sanctuary" IS their home. Cathy spends hours every
day in the very same areas with them. They have lots of human
companionship, probably more than many of us give our personal ferrets.
Every picture you see shows spotless cages, large floor space for
playing, lots of toys, and a lot of happy ferrets!! What more could
you possibly ask for?

I have heard different counts of the number of ferrets residing at
Zoo's. I'm sure that number changes regularly. I have also heard of
private individuals housing multiple dozens of ferrets. I know of at
least one shelter operator, maybe more, who has adopted (given) ferrets
to several homes who already have 30+ ferrets. Assuming the animals are
well cared for in both instances, what's the problem? Our first concern
should be the health and well-being of the ferrets.

Based on what I have learned, Cathy DOES re-home ferrets. I'm not sure
who started that "rumor" long ago, but it has somehow become fact now.
She is very particular about who she gives ferrets to, which I consider
a good thing. She's not into numbers, but quality. I would guess that
she has few, if any, ferrets that are returned to her or dumped.

No matter what you call yourself, it does not preclude you from
educating the public about ferrets. In fact, it is that lack of
education which results in the animals being in the
sanctuary/shelter/rescue to begin with. Education brings volunteers,
which brings new homes. I would almost bet that Zoo will give a ferret
or two to that young person who volunteers with her. At least this
young person is being educated about commitment beforehand. An educated
pet store purchase lessens the chance of that ferret later being dumped
on a shelter. And Cathy has also stated that she refers people to
nearby ferret shelters.

I agree that there is a need for both shelters and sanctuaries. And,
there's no reason they all can't work together. It's a shame that some
rescues/sanctuaries feel they need to operate in the dark because of
the few who publicly attack them. No matter what we call ourselves,
the most important thing is the welfare of the ferrets.

[Posted in FML 5731]