Ferret Greetings, Just my two cents on ferrets and children. From my own experience, kids and pets can get along well or not get along at all. My five-year-old son can now be trusted to watch the ferrets for a few minutes if I need him to while I take out the garbage or clean the cage, but he had to earn that trust. He is still reminded not to chase after the fuzzies if he does not want an occasional playful nip. He is very careful not to hurt them, but this took constant supervision and teaching and he is still supervised. Sebastian has been around ferrets since he was born. My hubby bought me an albino ferret when I was pregnant. It was three weeks until my due date, but Sebastian arrived early. He must have known we bought a ferret. Anyway, when Rufus was out Sebastian was not on the floor or in a position where Rufus could get to him. I let Rufus and Sebastian meet and check eachother out but only when I was right there. Never a problem. From the start Sebastian has been taught what is acceptable and what is not. Pets can be a very good way to teach children responsibility and compassion for animals. But adults must be willing to take on the responsibility of supervising and teaching children. Sebastian now helps take care of the fuzzies and will sometimes even tell me feeding them is his responsibility. Sorry this is long, but I don't think children should be deprived of pet ferrets based solely on the fact that they are children. I wasn't and my son isn't and it is working out very well. Remember, any animal has the capability of harming someone when not treated well by anyone. It is a decision each parent must make for themselves based on their experiences and the children's temperment. Hope everyone is enjoying the winter holiday season and has a Happy New Year. Fuzzy hugs, Donelle and the crowd in Washington, Ill. [Posted in FML issue 2171]