Hi all! Two things: On 'comatose' sleeping ferrets-they seem to do this when they are VERY comfortable with their lifestyle and habitat-no need to be on 'alert' for danger! On Ferret Legislation in Michigan: A bill to allow ferret to be kept as pets in Michigan (HB4495) is being redrafted after an informal hearing with the bill's sponsor, a very patient Lynn Owen. There was a disagreement betiween the Michigan Humane Society and the Great Lakes Ferret Association as to breeding requirements. With some helpful input form MVMA's Ferret Committee Chair, Dr. Joel Schiff, a compromise appears to have been reached. The only opposition appears now to be from the Michigan Department of Public Health. The MDPH is concerned that they will not have sufficient staffing to respont to the increased number of bite reports and rabies examination anticipated if ferrets are legal to own. The bill's sponsor has asked for documentation that this has occurred in any of the 46 states where ferrets may be kept as pets. It is expected that the final wording in the bill will require: 1. Ferrets to be vaccinated against rabies if over 12 weeks of age. 2. Ferret bites to be reported to a public health department and owners would have to comply with the rabies compendium if a human bite occurred (i.e., euthanasia and rabies examination) 3. Hobby breeders (those not registered with the federal government) to comply with fairly strict husbandry regulations, including: a. A contract whereby the hobby breeder agrees to take back any ferret they sell, without questions and prohibiting the buyer from transferring the ferret to anyone else. b. Prohibiting any sale prior to 10 weeks of age. c. Establishing a veterinary care program that includes periodic visits from the veternarian to monitor the health and husbandry. 4. Ferrets to be confined or on a leash if off the owner's premises. 5. If imported into Michigan, ferrets are to be: a. Accompanied by a health certificate. b. Vaccinated against rabies if over 12 weeks of age. c. Vaccinated against distemper if over 6 weeks of age. d. Accompanied by its natural mother if under 6 weeks of age. 6. Anyone recieving a ferret to be provided with information on ferret health requirements. >From News & Views, the newsletter of the Michigan Veterinary Medical Association. Distribute freely. Respectfully, Paul in MI and the gang!! >>> End of Message <<< [Posted in FML issue 0825]