I read this in Friends of Ferrets of Upper New York Newsletter.  I hope this
helps !
 
Even the best ferret parents can be victimized by an enterprizing fur
covered offspring.  If one of your fuzzy children should ever wander
outdoors, here are some very good steps to follow to find your lost one.
How to Trace a Lost Pet
 
1. Check through your house carefully, including places where your ferret
"couldn't possibly go." Look inside drawers, under dressers, in hampersd,
under and inside refrigerators, etc.
 
2. Check your backyard, bushes, and garage.  Most ferrets when exploring a
new area will cling to the side of a building or structure before venturing
out into an open area.
 
3. Ask your neighbors and especially neighborhood children.  Kids spend more
time outside than adults do and a new "creature" roaming the block will
surely catch their attention.  Ask permission to enter a neighbor's sheds or
garages and ask your neighbors to check their dryer vents to see if the
ferret may have climbed into them.
 
4. Post notices and pictures of your ferret whenever possible- bulletin
boards at grocery stores, libraries, gas stations.  Be sure to go back and
take them down again once your pet is back safe at home.
 
5. Alert your mailman, newspaper boy, and anyone else who passes through
your area frequently.
 
6. Call your local police, city pound, and animal shelters.  If possible,
give them a picture of your ferret or a very detailed description.  Does
your ferret have any tattoos or distinguishing marks to make identification
easier?  Check back frequently for signs of return.
 
7. Place your ferrets cage or carrier outside with some bedding in it.
Sometimes they can smell their way home.  Check the cage frequently for
signs of return.
 
8. Place an ad in your local newspaper.  Give a detailed description of
your pet; when it was lost; and the general area where it was lost.  You
don't have to list an address, but be sure to list your phone number.
[Posted in FML issue 1854]