Hello everyone!
 
Just wanted to let y'all know that I talked to the vet that treated Rascal
(Dr. David Kralovanec of Great Neck Veterinary clinic) and my regular vet
(Dr. Herbert Hulls of Pet Care Veterinary Clinic) and re-read my notes that
I took while speaking to the vet at United Vaccine, in regards to the
possible prevention of Rascal's reaction by waiting longer before
vaccinating.
 
ALL of the vets were unanimous in their opinion (and yes, they said it was
their opinion!) that the short span of time when Rascal came into the
shelter and was vaccinated had NOTHING to do with his reaction.  In fact,
Dr. Hulls elaborated that a) knowing the ferret's vaccine was due in 1996,
and b) the fact we are a shelter and that we never know what kind of
situation is entering our doors, that it was more than prudent to vaccinate
as soon as reasonably allowed.  He said its much more important to protect
against distemper, EVEN if we do isolate our new shelter kids.
 
Since I am not a vet, I asked the opinions of qualified professionals that
see a lot of ferrets.  I did not want to put any of my charges here at any
unnecessary risk, and so I went back to the pros.  So, I guess I will
continue our policy of vaccinating healthy, unknown history shelter kids as
soon as possible, as long as a vets office is open for at least another hour
or two.
 
I was very concerned that Bill and Diane may be onto something, and thats
why I pursued it.  I do want to thank them for their input and concern for
the fuzzies in my care.
 
Lisa, Head Ferret
The Ferret Haven "By-the-Sea"
[Posted in FML issue 2242]