Dear constant readers & AZ Whiz
 
>It simply never occurred to me that a breeder would require a contract.
 
Yeah, most proper breeders of any sort of pets do - including dogs, cats,
and birds.  To me, it shows that the breeder *really* cares about that
animal and the whereabouts of it, how it is handled, if it is loved, and it
helps in genetic tracing.  If you place a critter you bred with a person
will to sign a contract, then there is a very good chance that contact will
be up held.  (Not that non-contract ferret owners make bad homes... you all
know what I mean ... I hope!)
 
Many shelters also use contracts.  In fact, my contract is strickter for
the shelter kids than the kids I bred.  I only do this because I want to
ensure that the adoptive party understands that if that animal (one that
usually has already had a rough start on life) is treated well - and how
serious I am about it.  I have had no problems with my shelter kids - they
are all in permanent, loving, and wonderful homes.
 
>My wife and I never acquired a pet from a breeder.  They all were bailed
>out of pounds or unwanted litters or, in one case, were rescued from a
>semi-feral existence if I can be allowed to use that term.  There was no
>particular reason for this, it just happened that way.
 
Good for you!  (I am not being sarcastic here)  You should be comended for
this ... as I feel this is a very good thing.  Not enough people seek and
find these oppertunities.
 
>I don't think it would have been too much for someone to point out
>politely that Flemming Farms has a restrictive contract.  Obviously,
>there must be reasons for it since I understand Flemming Farms is a
>highly respected breeder.
 
Thank you for the very nice comment.  I am sure that both of our tempers
were out of control ... and when posts are read, the tone can be taken all
wrong ... I personally am sorry if I have misjudged you and your coments...
 
>I won't mention my 20 years of riding and driving horses.  They aren't
>pets.
 
I used to ride (was a top rider in my state as a kid), drive, train, show,
give riding lessons, be a breeding manager at a Morgan farm ... my gelding
was my best friend, but he didn't get to jump on my bed like my ferrets do,
tho ...
 
Amy Flemming
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Flemming Farms - Michigan, USA
Breeding for Quality Ferrets
American, Australian, German, and New Zealand bloodlines
Come see us at http://www.geocities.com/heartland/ranch/9521
 
Weasel Watchers Ferret Rescue - Michigan, USA
Helping Needy Weasels
Come see us at http://www.geocities.com/petsburgh/zoo/2690
 
"For every action, there is an equal and opposite criticism"
[Posted in FML issue 2757]