FYI - the following is the HSUS position statement on ferrets I received by fax: [letterhead] The Humane Society of the United States 2100 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20037 (202) 452-1100 FAX (202) 778-6132 October, 1992 The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is the largest animal-protection organization in the country, representing over 1.6 million constituents. The HSUS recognizes that domestic ferret[s] have become increasingly poplar [sic] as pets in recent years. Rabies In 1990, the United States Department of Agriculture licensed a rabies vaccine for domestic ferrets. However, because the incubation period for rabies in domestic ferrets is still unknown, public health officials recommend that any ferret who bites should be euthanized and analyzed for rabies. Biting Due to past incidences of ferrets severely or even fatally biting children, The HSUS recommends that children, particularly infants, never be left unsupervised with a ferret. Behavior Ferrets may not be the best companion animal for many people. Their nocturnal habits, curiosity, and high activity level make ferrets often difficult to contain and control. Keeping ferrets in a humane environment is a challenge, because they should not be confined to a cage all the time, yet need close supervision when allowed out of their enclosures. Sheltering Animal shelters that receive ferrets should develop their own individual policies on whether to place ferrets for adoption. This determination may depend on a variety of factors, including local ordinances that may restrict ferret ownership, and the cooperation of knowledgeable ferret owners to assist with proper placement. Sterilization It is imperative that all pet ferrets are spayed and neutered. Not only does sterilization diminish the offensive odor intact ferrets produce, but it also improves temperament and guarantees that ferret overpopulation does not become a problem, as it has with cats and dogs. Summary In short, The HSUS does not believe that ferrets are suitable pets for most people. That is not to say that a ferret cannot be kept humanely as a companion animal, but it takes a special individual to adequately meet a ferret's special needs and provide humane care. =END= [Posted in FML issue 1231]