I am a new subscriber to the FML (just signed up last week).  I've never
been to a show, don't have fuzzies yet, I'm waiting on my NY permit
application.  Hopefully in a few weeks I 'll have it and can get a pair of
fuzzies from one of the area shelters.  I have been reading the posts here
on the ECE outbreak at the Washington show.  My heart goes out to all those
who lost beloved fuzzies.  You can't change the past and ranting here or
elsewhere won't bring your little ones back.
 
But maybe some good can come out of what happened.  Instead of finger
pointing, how about doing something constructive?  Here's my challenge to
anyone who'll take up the cause, and try to change the future.
 
Ask yourself (and others, if appropriate), what can be done to minimize risk
of ECE at future events?  Take up the cause at a local level.  Put together
a fact sheet on ECE and distribute copies to vet clinics, pet stores, clubs,
shelters ,and shows encouraging them to distribute copies to owners.
Education is so important in detecting and controlling disease.  Contact
show / event officials to see if any additional prevention steps can be
taken at future events.  Find ways to encourage attendees to report sick
ferrets, so that owners won't be afraid to report this (they should be
thanked for trying to minimize risk to other animals, not criticized for
bringing a sick animal.).  Have an ECE education seminar at your club,or
offer to help hold one at local events.  Find out if anyone is doing ECE
research/vaccine developement, if not, can we encourage someone to?  Would
fundraising help?  .  Any other ideas?
 
The future is in your hands!
 
It's 12:07pm, have you hugged your fuzzy today?
[Posted in FML issue 1860]