I can relate to some aspects of Margie's post and I support her opinions.
I'm all for shelters being upfront and honest about ECE and ADV, past or
present.
 
>From:    Dook Dook <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: ADV, Shelter testing, Public knowledge,
>
>If someone asked you, will you adopt a ferret from a shelter that doesn't
>test for ADV.?  I wonder what your answer will be.  Most often times, we
>ask about ECE in the past, why not now ask about ADV.
 
I've asked about both, especially ADV, on more than one occasion.  There's
a fuzzie I'd love to adopt but I can't get a straight answer and I refuse
to take any (known) chances.
 
>You say, shelters can't afford to test all their adoptees.  Are you
>willing to pay to have your potential adoptee tested before you bring
>them home?  Why not?
 
I am.  In fact, I've insisted on paying for both blood and saliva to be
tested in the potential adoptee.  I've provided information from United
and Avecon.
 
>Then why is it when a shelter states one little one with ADV. came in and
>was quarantined with extra ordinary precautions taken, are potential adopt
>ors being hesitant to adopt.  Nothing was hidden.
 
Can't answer that one, but I, personally, would much rather deal with a
shelter operator who is honest and upfront.  I guess maybe it's similar
to the poster that depicts an ostrich with it's head buried in the state
of CA (sand) while ferrets play on its back.
 
>It didn't have to be said.  The shelter's testing of each and every
>entrant is for adoptors benefit as well as the shelter.
 
Exactly.  It could have been disclosed only on an 'as needed' basis.  I
very much respect them for testing and for being so responsible.  ADV is
here, like it or not.  Just because someone hasn't heard of it being in
their area doesn't mean it isn't.  I have one ferret-knowledgeable
veterinarian that didn't give it much thought or take it very seriously
until I brought some information to him.  He has since changed his
attitude and belief.  Btw, he has ferrets of his own.
 
>Think twice before you adopt the next time about what is or is not being
>said or not said.
 
So very true.  Such good advice.
 
>Shelter operators are human too.  Only, sometimes they care so much for
>others, they spare no cost.
 
Thank goodness for the ones that do and that have a conscience.  I know it
sometimes comes at a high price, though.
 
>"Ask and you shall receive"
>"seek and it will be given to you"
>
>Margie
 
[SS]
[Posted in FML issue 3467]