Ferret Vet

Question
QUESTION: Hi there!

I have 2 ferrets.  The estimated ages are around 2.  The previous owner was unsure of there ages.  They have had there initial shots and she told me they were due for there next ones this month.  I'm just wondering which ones I should be getting.  What are the questions I should be asking the vet and do you know any vets in the Vineland, NJ area that you would recommend?  

Thanks!
Stephanie

ANSWER: Hello Stephanie,

By initial, do you mean starter shots or they are just do for their booster shots? Because if they have just had the starter shots and they are two years old, that is a little strange. The vaccinations that are given to ferrets, though, are rabies and canine distemper. Here is a list of vets that are hopefully in your area:

http://ferrethealth.org/vets/zipcode.cgi?zipcode=08360&no=100&miles=250

When you find a vet, the best thing to do is call them in advance to get pricing on their vaccinations and their wellness exams, things like that. You should ask how often they see ferrets in their practice and if the vets are "exotics" qualified, as ferrets are still considered exotic animals, even though they are the number three most popular companion pet in America. As there are several vets that seem to be in your area, I would suggest calling the ones that are within your convenient range and comparing the answers. Some vets will say that they treat ferrets, but they might just be "regular" cat and dog vets and may not be fully qualified to treat your fuzzbutts. Also, you should ask what the process would be as far as emergencies: Is there a vet on call for emergencies? Is there somewhere in the area they can refer you to? Is there a payment plan available for emergency situations? Once you find a vet that answers your questions to your satisfaction, you should just take them in for  a wellness evaluation. They can be updated on their vaccinations and the vet can check them over for obvious parasites and other creepy-crawly things like that. The vet will probably check their teeth over as well.

Also, I'm sure the vet will suggest this when you're there, but you should stay at the office for about a half hour after they get their vaccinations because that way they can be monitored for any allergic reactions to the medication.

I hope this is helpful, and if you have further questions, please do not hesitate to ask. Also, I might suggest that you pick up a copy of Ferrets for Dummies, second edition, by Kim Schilling. This is a great book for new and seasoned ferret parents - most definitely a valuable reference.

Sincerely,
Emilee Andrews

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: They've already had there starter shots.  This would just be for booster shots.  She said she kept very current on there shots.  I have one more question for you.  My female ferret every now and again will climb on the back of my ferret and kind of ride him around lol.  I'm just wondering if this is a show of dominance or something else.  Thanks again!

Answer
Hi again, Stephanie,

It could be a dominance thing but I think most likely, it might be a playing type of thing. I'm not sure if it is anything to worry about. That sounds like a playing type behavior. If you think it is a problem, you could always ask at your vet visit, though. I hope this helps and if you need anything else, just let me know!

Sincerely,
Emilee Andrews