March 12, 2004
Dear Ms. Veneman and Mr. Acord:
My name is Sandra Kudrak, and I am a veterinarian currently practicing in New York. Through the years, I have developed a strong professional and personal interest in ferrets as pets and as research animals.
Several years ago, it came to my attention that an inordinate number of ferrets I saw in the pet stores appeared ill and unthrifty. At that time, I launched a research study to examine these animals, and discovered that approximately 40% of ferret kits being offered to the public for sale had signs of clinical illness: pneumonia, diarrhea, emaciation, prolapsed rectums, and other conditions. Part of this study examined the age of the animal at the time of transport, and I was shocked to discover many of these kits were only 6-7 weeks old. Some had unhealed surgical incisions from their recent neutering surgeries, and many had only kit dentition, and were unable to chew the hard kibbled food offered to them. Having been weaned from their mothers at an unnaturally young age (8 weeks is the normal weaning age for ferret kits, similar to puppies and kittens), a large number of these animals were developing behaviour abnormalities as well.
I began to research the protection offered these animals through the AWA [Animal Welfare Act], and discovered that they are not well protected at all, with no species specific requirements. I was surprised at this, since they are one of the most popular housepets in America.
After speaking to many other veterinarians and ferret-related groups, I realized that this is a widespread problem with significant consumer and financial concerns. I began to work with a number of groups to alleviate the problem, and was able to pass an age related bill in the State of Maine to help protect consumers from the sale of these unthrifty underaged animals. A similar bill has been passed in New Hampshire, and one is underway in Maryland as well as other states.
I have also put together a committee of veterinarians to discuss possible revisions to the Animal Welfare Act that would provide species specific protection to ferrets. I would be happy to share that information with you, or anyone on your staff that you might have investigate this project.
Given the widespread concern on the part of ferret owners and ferret groups, we have submitted a formal petition to your office asking this problem be addressed. Only a small number of the interested groups and individuals are represented on that petition - there are many more consumers that have contacted myself and the others listed on the petition with their concerns.
The formal petition will be arriving in your office shortly by certified mail. I would be most happy to act as a liason between your offices, the involved ferret groups, the working committee of veterinarians, and the public to find a speedy resolution to this problem.
Please feel free to contact me at any time with your thoughts or questions.
I appreciate your time, and hope you will investigate this matter thoroughly, and immediately.
Sincerely,
Sandra
C. Kudrak, DVM, DABVP
Community Animal Hospital