Ferrets: Providing the Best Home for Your Ferret (Complete Care Made Easy) - Softcover

Karen Dale Dustman

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1889540722 ISBN 13: 9781889540726

Publisher: CompanionHouse Books, 2002

Synopsis

Even though ferrets are relatively new to the pet world, these charming weasels have been human companions for thousands of years, as author Karen Dale Dustman shares in the opening of Ferrets. The first chapter of the book ("A Nod to Ferret History") paints a fascinating portrait of ferrets' place in human and natural history (who knew they were related to minks?). Since ferrets aren't legal in all states (or cities and counties, depending on local statutes), potential owners are advised to do their homework before purchasing a ferret. (A complete chapter on legal and regulatory concerns can be found at the end of the book.) The chapter "Choosing a Ferret Companion" offers solid advice about selecting a healthy ferret, where to purchase, and owner considerations such as spaying/neutering and de-scenting. The author has written two excellent chapters about acclimating the new ferret to the home and living with this clever, fun-loving critter. These chapters detail the selection of the best cage, litter box options, feeding, ferret-proofing the home for safety, grooming, and daily care. The most important chapter in the book focuses on training the naturally mischievous ferret from developing unacceptable habits (including nipping and squirming). A bright, well-mannered ferret can also be trained to use a litter box, walk on a harness and leash, and perform tricks. The chapter also discusses strategies for dealing with a lost ferret and the importance of microchipping. Keeping the ferret healthy is the subject of "Medical Basics," a chapter that covers choosing a veterinarian, routine checkups, vaccinations, rabies, heartworm, and ferret-specific ailments. Sidebars on warning signs and first aid will prove especially helpful in emergencies. The appendices of the book include hints for photographing the ferret and lists of clubs, organizations, and websites. Glossary of terms and index included.

About this title

Synopsis

Filled with accurate, up-to-date information, these complete care guides help new pet owners build lasting and loving relationships with their animal companions. No sleepy academic tomes, the Complete Care Guides address all the major issues concerning owning a pet with down-to-earth language, honesty, humour, and a hundred full-colour photographs. Reaching above and beyond ordinary pet care books, they remain essential long after a pet's first day home, thanks to fascinating historical facts, a helpful resource guide, emergency first aid tips, fun activities, and much more. Queen Victoria loved them. Augustus Caesar depended upon them. This book helps others decide whether to share their castle with a ferret and how to build and maintain a peaceful kingdom.

Edition details

• Publisher: CompanionHouse Books
• Publication date: 2002
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1889540722
• ISBN 13: 9781889540726
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 176