Here is the response I received from Petco.  I guess we'll see what
happens.
 
Kim
 
My name is Steve Dubeck.  I am the Regional Companion Animal Manager for
Petco's East Coast Region.  I am sorry to hear of your recent experience
in the Timonium, Md. location.  I spoke with Bonnie (G.M. of the store)
today regarding your concerns with the ferrets.  The ferrets in question
were taken to the vet last weekend and were released with medication and
have made a remarkable recovery.  I will follow up with an unannounced
standards audit at this location within the next two weeks.
 
I have also spoken with the supplier of our ferrets.  They informed me
that although the ferrets are small this time of the year, they are
shipped in accordance with USDA and State of Maryland regulations.  (8
weeks of age be fore they are placed for sale).
 
We also have employees at the store level that work with our ferrets.
They do not work with the ferrets specifically, but with all of the small
animals (Mice, rats, guinea pigs).  We are actually in the process of
enhancing new employee training, we are releasing a new program called
"Total Care"  This class encompasses the day to day needs of small
animals, birds and reptiles.  We are also introducing standardized
training and certification for the specialist positions later this year.
 
The major point I would like to make is that we at Petco care for our
customers and our animals.  If you have any further or unanswered
concerns please feel free to contact Bonnie (the G.M. of Petco Timonium)
at 410-453-9131 or you may e-mail me directly at [log in to unmask]
 
Thanks for your concern!,
Steve Dubeck
Petco Animal Supplies Inc.
Regional Companion Animal Mgr.
East Coast Operations
[Posted in FML issue 3762]