Just a few tips about traveling with ferrets (particularly in cars,
on long distance trips) that may not have been mentioned in recent or
previous posts ....
 
#1 PLEASE pack a 'ferret' first aid kit (there are some great first aid
checklists in Kim Schillings' "Ferrets for Dummies" book).
 
#2 Since most ferrets sleep a majority of the day and prefer dark spaces,
it's a good idea to cover their "quarters" with dark material that can
keep light out, reducing further stress and strain on them.  Make sure to
allow for enough potty and food/water breaks, too - probably more than
usual if the furkids are trying to adjust to the new surroundings.
 
#3 (This requires some work but is WELL worth it if/when emergencies
arise away from home)  Make a list of major cities along your route and
then do an on-line search of veterinarian / animal hospitals located in
those cities.  It would be a good idea to call these vet offices to
ensure they treat ferrets.  Then, you'll have some leads on hand rather
than trying to flip thru a phone book if/when an emergency should arise
and you are stressed and panicked!
 
#4 Take photos of each of your pets and use them to create a descriptive
poster (8.5 x 11, regular paper size) in case a pet might get separated
from you and you would need to show others what to look for.  THIS COULD
BE KEY INFORMATION for helping locate a lost pet if (God forbid) you
would have to leave the pet behind and continue on your trip!!!
 
These things have served me very well on numerous road trips with my
furkids but thankfully, I've never experienced any major emergencies with
them away from home!  But, of course, it never hurts to be prepared!!
 
Happy Trails . . . .   Jennifer and the 3 Amigos
[Posted in FML issue 4851]