Kathy Jordon writes The problem with the proposed changes in USDA rules is that the enforcement will be an issue, and I don't think that it will be enforced evenly from state to state, PLUS, time and time again I have had occasions when veterinarians were mistaken about ages when the ferrets go in for exams after being shipped, off by several weeks. The proposed regulations will stipulate that ferret kits cannot be transported or sold until the age of eight weeks, as indicated by the emergence of adult canines. This is very simple: If a kit has adult canines, it is considered to be 8 weeks old. If it does not have adult canines, it is not yet 8 weeks old. Thus it will be very easy with minimal training for breeders, distributors, retailers, buyers, vets and inspectors to determine if a kit is old enough to be legally transported or sold. Kathy, you stated in your public comment APHIS-2005-0063-0309 that The airline regulations specify shipping at a minimum of 8 weeks of age. There are no such airline (or federal) regulations with respect to ferrets, only cats and dogs. You state on your web site http://www.carolinaferrets.net/id13.html The Animal Welfare Act has so many guidelines that animals go better than people. It doesn't matter what the temps are when we board and get off, but animals have to be comfortable and fed and receive veterinary attention if they need it. The feeding times have to be recorded, and health documentation in the airline's computer for the USDA to review. If the airlines don't comply, they get HUGE fines. Yet on your public comment you say the regulations not being enforced now, and with the USDA at many airline hubs to inspect, I don't see how it will be enforced if the regulations are changed. By the way, the current USDA regulations as they apply to ferrets ("other warm blooded mammals") only stipulate feeding once every 24 hours, and offering water once every 12 hours. You also state on your web page With Continental, when they change planes in Houston, I have been told that a licensed vet takes them off and boards them again for their continuing flight. Could you tell me who gave you that information? I have been unable to verify it. Information on Continental's animal policy is available at http://www.continental.com/travel/policies/animals/ Kathy, USDA regulations only apply to breeders who sell to retail stores. Do you sell your kits to retail stores or only direct to the buyer? Linda Iroff International Ferret Congress http://www.ferretcongress.org [Posted in FML issue 5023]