Just to make a few comments on this posting......MSU (Michigan State University) does have minks...not ferrets..(this is coming from a research associate from MSU). They use minks for humane research and are under extensive scrutiny by regulations. Otherwise..their research would not be publicized or funded...for that matter. I have purchased ferrets from Preusses Animal House in Lansing. They are wonderful ferrets! They do not sell them by age, but by a mandatory weight. Meaning their well past the 8 weeks of age by the time the public can bring them into their homes. They also have a first time free visit to the vet. I do not want to start any unwanted controversy, however, we need to keep things in perspective. MSU is a wonderful, integrated university that strives to expand their students minds. "Without humane research people would not live past 40..how old are you?" Andria L. Mayack, B.S., PAS USDA, FSIS Food Inspector [log in to unmask] [Posted in FML 6016]