to: "Stephen S. Bai" <> ALWAYS USE A HARNESS AND LEAD!!!! Ferrets can be quicker than you think! NEVER let a ferret outside unattended. In our yard, we have a large wire cage that sits on the ground that we put a few ferrets in so they can get some fresh air. I check them every 20-30 minutes - to make sure the sun is not shining on them and that the neighborhood kids haven't been tampering with them. If I take a ferret on a walk, I use an H style harness, and 3 foot lead, and do not let the ferret check out holes or drain pipes. I try to walk on the grass or cement sidewalk - never on asphalt or other heat retaining surfaces. Take a water bottle with you just in case, and if the ferret starts to pant - take it indoors to cool off. NEVER LEAVE A FERRET IN A CAR - EVEN FOR A FEW MINUTES. Pam Grant Shelters That Adopt & Rescue Ferrets [Posted in FML issue 1191]