Before I make a comment that will probably upset many people on the line I would like to note that I own and love four ferrets as well as work with another 40 as a volunteer in a humane shelter, the Greater Chicago Ferret Asssociation. I read the letter from the HSUS posted on yesterdays newsletter and when viewing it unemotionally I must admit that many of their conclusions have some merit that should be considered without emotion. Rabies I do not agree with their rabies stance especially for ferrets that are not in contact with other animals. But there is an important point here. Can aanyone tell me what the rabies incubation period is for a ferret as well as for a human bittten by any rabid animal. Remember, this is a fatal disease. Biting There have not been very many incidents of biting that I am aware of. But there have been a few by ferrets, and many more by other animals. But in working with these very curious animals in a shelter I would not want to alllow the adoption of a ferret to a young child. I have come to my own personal conclusion that this probably is not an animal, as well as many cats and dogs, that should be adopted by children not old enough to stop the animal from biting if it a situation should occur where it might bite. Behavior The HSUS statement that Ferrets may not be the best companion animal for many people."Their nocturnal habits, curiosity, and high activity level..." This is probably true, however it is just as true for dogs and cats. I remember a few dogs and cats who have damaged and gotten into things much more than my curious little fuzzy heads do. Sheltering Each shelter does set its own policies. Sterilization " "It is imperative that all pet ferrets are spayed and neutered... I am not certain what it does for their personality, but it does prevent our female buddies from a non mating death. Being in a shelter, overpopulation should be a concern for every one of us. It breaks my heart everytime I see another ferret being dropped off. I wish I could adopt them all. Summary "In short, The HSUS does not believe that ferrets are suitable pets for most people... but it takes a special individual to adequately meet a ferret's special needs and provide humane care." As much as I hate to admit it, it probably does take a special individual to adequately meet a ferrets special needs. Perhaps not all of what they are saying is that far off and not every ferret I met has a wonderful non biting personality, although many more are just perfect, I have a few holes to prove there are a few that for whatever reason could be a concern in a home. I just wish the HSUS would also note that there are a lot of other pets in the dog and cat family that might be a problem as well. Every animal has its problems. but for the most part for the right person in the right situation the ferret is a perfect companion. Hal [Posted in FML issue 1233]