at www.drklein.net/_disc1/0000001a.htm
 
Your recommendations against ferrets as pets is appalling.  A ferret is no
more dangerous than a dog.  There are far more legitimate reports of dog
bites than ferret bites.  A ferret who is handled properly from birth will
be docile and gentle.  They must be taught not to mouth humans the same
as a puppy.  There has never been a known case of rabies transmitted by a
ferret to a human.  If the ferrets escaped their confinements, as your
article states, that is the fault of the parent and not the ferret.
Ferrets play by biting if not taught better.  And they do not like to let
go if they get a good grip.  the flailing hands and limbs of infants looks
like an invitation to play to a ferret, who love to play chase.  You are
absolving the parents of these children of any responsibility for their
neglect to supervise their children with pets, which should be basic
common sense, and, their responsibility for seeing their pets properly
caged or confined.  A ferret who has been abused or neglected will lash
out the same as any dog or other pet.  I think you are telling people not
to get ferrets as pets out of possible innocent ignorance to the nature
of ferrets, but harm comes from the most honorable of intentions at times.
Ferrets have different personalities, just like canine companions.  It is
really wrong to make blanket statements about their supposed viciousness.
The only vicious ferrets to even come to my shelter are those who are
never handled, or who are abused, flicked, hit, kicked, etc.  I welcome
the opportunity to assist you with finding the facts on ferret psychology
and behavior.  There are many excellent books about ferrets, the best of
which is "Ferrets for Dummies" by Kim Schilling.  I ask you to retract
your statement about ferret ownership not being recommended for households
with children.  Mine absolutely adore children, especially my own.  I have
some ferrets which think babies are wonderful, and will kiss them and
dance for them out of joy and love.
 
Kim Wolf
Mystyx Samoyeds, Ferrets and Rescue
of Galloway, Ohio
www.mystyxcritters.com
www.mystyxrescue.petfinder.org
[Posted in FML issue 3666]