Here's a little trick you might try for taking your ferret's temperature.
We've been using it for a few years, and it's been very accurate.
 
First, make sure you're using an electronic thermometer... one of the ones
that beep when the temperature stabilizes.  They're only about $6 - $10,
depending on where you get it, and they're much faster than an old mercury
thermometer.
 
Place the thermometer under the ferret's armpit (front leg for all you
purists).  Hold the ferret in your lap, keeping the arm (leg) against the
ferret's body.  When the thermometer beeps, add about 0.9 degrees to the
reading.  That'll be within about a tenth of a degree of the temperature
you'd get the less friendly way.
 
It's easy, and doesn't stress the ferret at all.
 
Best to all,
Steve and Diane Bodofsky
The Last Chance Ferret Rescue, and
The New Rainbow Bridge
www.newrainbowbridge.com
[Posted in FML issue 3667]