March 10, 2004
Submitted by:
International Ferret Congress
Sandra C. Kudrak, DVM, DABVP
Ferret Wise Rescue and Rehabilitation Shelter
West Central Ohio Ferret Shelter
Ferret Lovers Club of Texas
Maryland Ferret PAWS, Inc.
Support Our Shelters
Ferret Rescue of Maine
Western Maine Ferret Rescue
Submitted to:
Mr. Bobby Acord
Administrator of the Animal Plant Health Inspection Service
and
Ms. Ann M. Veneman
Secretary of the United States Department of Agriculture
Dear Sir and Madam:
We are petitioning the United States Department of Agriculture regarding the lack of adequate protection for the domestic ferret (Mustela furo) under the current provisions of the Animal Welfare Act.
Currently, the domestic ferret is considered to be one of the most popular companion animals in the United States as well as around the world. Sadly, the protection afforded to it by the Animal Welfare Act does not take into account the specific biological, physiological, and social needs of this animal in a manner consistent with other household pets such as cats and dogs. Given practices such as early and forced weaning, ferret kits are being shipped too young, resulting in large numbers of animals becoming ill during or shortly after transport. Many more animals develop significant behavioral abnormalities (such as aggression not normally seen in ferrets) because their inherent needs are not being met during the weaning and transportation process. Additionally, ferret kits are arriving to pet stores malnourished and ill. Starvation, pneumonia, prolapsed rectums, and seizures are regularly documented.
These animals, because of behavior and health problems, are being relinquished in large numbers to shelters and private individuals willing to attempt to rehabilitate them. Unfortunately, many are unable to recover to a state which makes them adoptable, causing a huge burden on the shelters as well as the general public.
The lack of protection afforded to this animal is contrary to both the language and Congressional intent of the Animal Welfare Act.
We formally request that the rulemaking be instituted to provide for adequate regulations specifically addressing the unique needs of ferrets as has been done for other species. The above parties are available and willing to provide their experience and expertise to see that fair, legal, and adequate regulations be drafted.
We ask that the agency take immediate action to remedy these violations of the Animal Welfare Act.