The Complete Ferret Book Chapter 4

CHOOSING YOUR FERRET

Do not go to the nearest pet store and purchase a ferret without asking a few questions first.The store should have

all of the information you require. The most important thing to ask for is proof of vaccinations. Never purchase a

store ferret that has not had any shots, most likely your potential pet was not born at the store and you have no

way of knowing how many other animals he was exposed to during shipment. Inquire about the method of shipping

used to deliver your pet to the store. If they were exposed to extremes of hot or cold, chances are your new pet

could turn out to be very ill. Be sure to ask for records of where the store purchased your ferret,and the date of

birth. A ferret in a pet store should never be under six weeks of age. If your pet is being sold as spayed/neutered

and descented the store shuold be able to provide veterinary records as proof. Make sure the cages and water are

clean and the animals apear healthy. If you finally decide to purchase your ferret from a pet store the last but most

important thing to ask for is a guarantee of health. Most pet stores give a one to two week guarantee of health for

your pet. This way if your pet becomes ill in that time period you can return them to the store for refund or

replacement.

Another way to purchase a ferret is directly from a breeder. Thus avoiding the concerns of shipment and exposure

to other animals. If you purchase from a breeder you get the chance to meet your pets parents and you can view

the enviroment your pet was raised in. Often a breeder will have more knowledge about the care you need to give

your pet than the local pet store will. Again make sure the cage and water are clean and the animals appear

healthy. Ask for proof of vaccinations ,spay/neuter ,and descenting .Some breeders do not give first shots because

the ferret has never left their home. If your ferret has not had any shots take him to the vet BEFORE you take him

home. A breeder should also give a limited health guarantee for your pet. Check with your local pet shelter and pet

stores for a list of breeders in your area. If you are a resident of the U.S. please keep in mind that it is illegal in

some states to own a ferret and check the laws in your area.

Once you have decided where to purchase your new fuzzie all that remains is to choose the new family member. Do

not grab the first ferret that comes to your hand, you must be sure the kits are weaned and over six weeks of age.

Most ferret kits are a little nippy at first so be prepared, they are simply used to playing with other ferrets and

must be taught that human skin isn't for biting. Be sure you are happy with your choice when you take your ferret

home, there will be other litters to choose from if you cannot find a ferret you like It is better to be totally satisfied

than to change your mind later.

An Introduction to Ferrets