First I want to go on record by saying that I absolutely agree that the
sale of ferrets (or any other animal for that matter) by retail stores is
largely responsible for the number of animals that wind up in rescues.  I
do not feel however that passing laws to prohibit these sales is the
answer.  I greatly fear that this is fighting the wrong fight.  As we
fight for laws that will protect our animals we need to realize that we
are dealing with the U.S.  government here and that we need to be careful
what we ask for.  There is the likelhood that Congress is going to get
fed up enough with these issues that they could ban ferret ownership
altogether and we will all wind up in the situation that California is in.
Colorado too for that matter.  Four is the limit there at this time and
that kills all my ideas of moving to that state.  Let's stay focused on
the issues that will protect the furkids:
 
1. Humane treatment, proper housing and care of ferrets while they are in
the store.
 
2. Education of the staff and all customers interested in becoming a
ferret parent.
 
Thanks for letting me vent.
Kim
S.U.M.S. Rescue
[Posted in FML issue 3656]