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]