This message is in response to ML's request for a sitter in the SF bay
area.  I just want to comment that the legal status of ferrets in
California is not necessarily a reason to stick away from professional
pet sitters.  I have had to deal with this issue, since I recently moved to
California myself.  In general, I have found that professional pet sitters
are in the business because they genuinely love animals.  For that reason,
they would have very little motivation to turn your fuzzies in.  When I was
looking around for a sitter, I made several anonymous calls before deciding
to give out any identifying information.  It was clear that some sitters
had never heard of ferrets before, whereas others had quite a bit of
experience with them and adored playing with them.  Another thing that you
might try is asking your vet if he or she can recommend a sitter.  That's
how I ended up with my current sitter... it just so happened that one of
the technicians in the office also does in-home sitting.  Good luck in your
search!
 
Julie
[Posted in FML issue 2876]