Hi Everyone:
 
Well we have had Oakley with us for about 3 weeks now and it finally clicked
to me 2 days ago that he is deaf.  Don't flame me for being a dummy!  I have
never been owned by a deaf pet before so I am slow!
 
Having typed my discalimer (grin) I contacted Randy at FAST and she gave me
some good ideas on how to communicate with Oakley but I am hoping that
others out there in the FML who have some experience with deaf ferrets will
contact me and share some of their ideas.  I believe one can never suffer
from too much information and I can't seem to find anything on the net
about it.
 
Here is what I am doing so far:
 
Am teaching Footsie the command "Foots find Oakley" and she is a quick
learner espically when treats are involved.  I need this command in case I
ever lose him in the house.
 
Oakley is a carpet digger so Randy suggested I get a water bottle and spray
him whenever he digs.  (he has a favorite spot)
 
I know to stamp my feet to get his attention and actually this works very
well to get the attention of both of them!
 
Oakley bites when he is frustrated or angry.  He got particullarily nasty at
the vets.  I know that some of you are saying big deal ferrets bite except
that Oakley does not just bite (we all get used to that) he lunges for your
cheek and bites hard.  Ordinarilly he does not bite other that a gentle nip
to the foot to tell you he wants you to play with him.  I have seen him bite
cheeks now 4 times and all 4 times it was out of frustration or anger.  I
will use Rescue Remedy from now on when I take him to the vets and give him
FerretTone while we are there and hope that helps but due to the lack of
hearing I cannot hold him on my shoulder and speak in soothing tones to him.
(which is what I was doing the other 4 times he lunged at my cheek.)  Randy
suggested spending more time stroking him when just in normal situations so
he becomes accustomed to good things associated with petting.  (i handle my
ferrets alot already as it is)
 
So that is what we are doing so far.  If anyone can add to this I would
really appreciate any ideas or input.
 
Thankx for reading this.
Cindy and the terrible tag-team twosome...Footsie and Oakley
[Posted in FML issue 2321]