The Ferret Inn

Bring your pet for pictures with Santa!

2011-12-04T11:00:00.006-05:00

Hello Animal lovers and friends,

Once again, "The Ferret Inn" has our own goodhearted volunteers posing as Santa and Elves at area Petsmart locations, on the dates below.

We are asking you to bring your furry, scaly or feathered friends (our helpers are very open minded) to have their picture taken with Santa. To help make this event even more fun and successful, invite friends and neighbors to bring their critters too!

The cost is $9.95, which includes a quality print and a really cute frame of your choice, The elves take take the pic, print it out, and frame it magically while you wait. "The Ferret Inn" receives $5 for every picture taken, and it is amazing what our posers put up with for a few bucks, to help raise funds for the kids at the "Inn."

So bring your pet and tell all your pet loving friends, through facebook, email, twitter, or morse code that Santa is coming to town! Hope to see you there!

December 11th

11am - 4pm

Glen Burnie Petsmart

24 Mountain Road

Glen Burnie MD 21060

December 17th

11am - 4pm

Laurel Petsmart

13600 Baltimore Ave

Laurel MD 20707

Gratefully yours, Nancy Wilson, Director - The Ferret Inn

A Huge Thanks To Girl Scout Troop 2108 !!

2011-09-12T16:44:00.016-04:00

Thank you Girl Scout Troop 2108!

Howard county 8^th and 9^th graders decided they would like to include an animal related project that would be the last step in acquiring their “Silver Award “. After doing a bit of research on ferrets, they chose “The Ferret Inn”.

The girls, 5 in total, spent several days volunteering in the shelter cleaning up after, and getting to know what “ferrets “ are all about.

In addition to educating church members and classmates with Ferret Education Days, the girls sold baked goods for a fundraiser, and purchased much needed supplies and a 30 lb. bag of Zupreem with the proceeds!!

They also made dozens of adorable Faux fur ferret bookmarkers for us to sell. Glue a mini magnet to the back and you have a one of a kind ferret fridge magnet!

The final piece of the project was a huge hit with the ferrets. Cardboard Castles made with tubes, tunnels and nesting boxes. We filled them with peanuts, and cuddly blankets and they serve as a playground with built in hidey-holes to stash their treasures in.

Thanks to the girls and the moms who accompanied them for a job well done.

"Massages for Mustelids" Was a Big Hit!

2011-09-08T17:15:00.005-04:00

The Ferret Inn would like to give a big THANK YOU to Jean Hurley-Gardner, a friend of the shelter and licensed massage therapist. For the month of July she came up with a fundraising idea, “Massages for Mustelids.” She donated the tips she earned for the month from The Healing Path in Federal Hill, where she works as a massage therapist. Jean also has an in-home office in Curtis Bay and donated all of her income from her private practice as well. Jean said that, thanks to many ferret-friendly clients who booked in July to support her cause, the typically slow month was very busy. In all, she donated $1600.00!! This proves what one person with a great idea and a huge heart can do. Thank you Jean, from all of the Kids at the “Inn”!! Please help us say thanks to Jean by booking your next massage with her, or if you have always wanted to get one, now is the time!!!

Jean is proudly owned by 9 furr kids, and if you book with her at her home office, you just may hear a pitter-patter on her hardwood floor, which she says some of her clients look forward to. Given the response, Jean is considering this being an annual event!!

You can contact Jean at 410-637-3760 https://www.thehealing-path.com

Winner of the Owl Bedding Set!!

2011-08-03T14:12:00.001-04:00

Congratulations to the winners of the Owl bedding set:

Lizzy and Chris who adopted Tika and Spirit from the Inn!!

EXTENDED!! Support the Shelter and have a chance to win!

2011-06-29T13:57:00.002-04:00

We have extended this till the end of July! 100% of the proceeds will go to benefit the shelter and the 'kids'.
Thank you!

Whooooooo's looking for some fun bedding?!?

Want a chance to win some awesome new bedding for your own fur kids (or grandkids), while helping us take care of the 'kids' at The Inn?

This brightly colored unisex owl print is just what your cage needs to bring the outside in. This set includes a barrel and den made by creationsbyangie.com, and a snuggly oversized hammie and padded sleep sack made and donated by Lisa O.

From now until July 31st, you have a chance to win this great bedding set! Donate $5 to The Ferret Inn for 10 chances, $10 for 20 chances or $20 for 40 chances to win. 100% of the proceeds will benefit the shelter.

Please use the new Google Checkout!

Garage Gang Update!

2011-06-15T19:20:00.003-04:00

Hello Friends of the Inn,

The good news is that Buddy has had his surgery last week , and is recovering nicely.
We wanted to wait for the biopsy report before we posted an update. Unfortunately, he does have lymphosarcoma.
We have decided to follow a treatment plan that has proven beneficial in two of our other ferrets at the "Inn" who had the same diagnosis.
This will be a long term protocol needing a CBC every two of weeks, and if his blood work looks good, he will receive the chemo drug Cytoxin. In addition he will need radiographs, b12 injections for support , etc.
We are hopeful that he will tolerate the treatments well.
The other 3 members of the Garage Gang are thriving and enjoying their new found freedom and enrichment provided by the rice boxes, ball boxes , miles of tubes and tunnels, and most of all, the peanuts!!!
We are grateful for those who have come forward to help with the Garage Gang's initial work-up.
However, we still need help with Buddy's surgery cost and treatment. His surgery was 330.00 including the biopsy and his monthly medical expenses will average to 150.00 on the conservative side. We are hoping to raise an addition $800.00, to cover surgery and 3 months of treatment for starters.
We have a great Owl themed four piece bedding set on our blog http://theferretinn.blogspot.com/ and face book.
What a great way to help out Buddy and have a chance at a cool bedding set!!

A Thursday update on the garage gang

2011-05-26T08:45:00.004-04:00

The good news is that the ADV results are negative, and just as important.. They all love their soup!! We serve it up in the morn and eve in addition to their kibble, and it shows. They are all getting a bit rounder, and gaining nicely, however Buddy is trailing behind a bit.

Sadly, the cytology report confirmed the lump on Buddy's neck is Lymphoma. Ideally, since it seems that only one lymph node is affected, we would remove it. However, due to his heart murmur, we are treating with pred for two weeks, and will revisit our options at that time.

Sophia

Sophia and Chubbs

Chubbs in the rice

more Chubbs

Buddy playing in the rice

Buddy in the Balls

4 Ferrets in Need

2011-05-23T21:13:00.012-04:00

I want to thank those who have stepped up to support these kids with your donations, it wouldn't be possible with out you.
Thanks so much

These are the before pictures

Buddy

Has a fascination with the cornstarch peanuts and chooses not only to play in them , but can be found snoozing in them as well.

The growth on his neck was aspirated and we are waiting for the cytology report.
Dr. Gold has hopes that it is just a blocked salivary gland. Lets hope!
His blood work also looked good , and glucose is 87, he got a deslorelin implant and will get a melatonin implant as well.
If the results of the cytology point to surgery, we will remove the chordoma as well next week.
Buddy does have a heart murmur , so will see how to
proceed.

Chubbs

Has settled in nicely as you can see, and has won us over with his laid back attitude.
None of these kids were held , much less cuddled, but Chubbs loves his new surroundings and lap time.

His blood work was normal as was his
Blood Glucose @ 109 !!
His obvious adreanal was treated with a deslorelin implant.
He will be getting a melatonin implant as well.

Jewel

Is just that, a precious tiny jewel.
She is smart and ever so curious. I have high hopes for this gal.
Jewel has suffered with adrenal for quite some time . Once the deslo and melatonin implant kick in ,I have hopes that she will feel like a brand new ferret, and will be able to fully enjoy the years she has left..

Her blood work also looked amazingly good and her glucose was 85.

Sophia

I named this beauty Sophia after Sophia Loren because of her stunning black eyes.

Unfortunately , as I suspected and Dr Gold confirmed , she is blind, and can only discern darkness and light.

Her blood work was unremarkable as well and her glucose is 78.
She also got the deslorelin implant, and is in line for a melatonin implant.

Support the Shelter and Have a Chance to Win!

2011-04-15T16:44:00.022-04:00

Whooooooo's looking for some fun bedding?!?

Want a chance to win some awesome new bedding for your own fur kids (or grandkids), while helping us take care of the 'kids' at The Inn?

This brightly colored unisex owl print is just what your cage needs to bring the outside in. This set includes a barrel and den made by creationsbyangie.com, and a snuggly oversized hammie and padded sleep sack made and donated by Lisa O.

From now until June 30th, you have a chance to win this great bedding set! Donate $5 to The Ferret Inn for 10 chances, $10 for 20 chances or $20 for 40 chances to win. 100% of the proceeds will benefit the shelter.

Please use the new Google Checkout!

York Spring Nationals!

2011-04-03T08:31:00.010-04:00

The “Ferret Inn’ had a vendor table at the York Spring
Nationals and launched a new line of ferret embellished tees
called “Weasel Warhol” which were well received.
We are constantly looking for ways to support the
shelter, so please consider a “Weasel Warhol Tee for
a great Easter gift for the ferret loving gal in your life!

Tom and I were joined at the show by Melissa and her special
needs ferret Dookie (who has been making a hit on you tube
lately http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awi2ydTMmdY ),
Emily,(Mel's friend and fellow vet student ),and Jasmin and
husband John who came to experience their first show . We
were grateful for the good company and the help!!
On a side note, CONGRATULATIONS to Drs. Melissa and
Emily who are graduating vet school in May..!!

Dookie was a hit as usual , his playpen surrounded with adoring
children and adults as well, kept us busy when we weren't
selling , browsing other vendors, or just kicking back sharing
stories and good conversation.
He also won an impressive " 2nd" in the physically challenged
class. Our friend and judge, Penny Hendrix was tearing as she
presented Dookie with his ribbon and story of spinal lymphoma,
which of course caused a chain reaction of tears and sniffles with
Melissa and us Dookie fans. On lookers alike were touched . :)

photos by BonnieRussell

Lisa O. brought some of her fabulous bedding which we sold all
but one piece of and a great “Owl themed “raffle ensemble. Due
to the lack of foot traffic we will be raffling it on Face book or the
blog or both along with some other cool stuff including “Weasel
Warhol “tees!. Stay tuned!!!
Andrea knitted two adorable ferret collars which got lost in the
bedding and such on the table, so didn’t have a chance to be
snatched up! (Note to self ... Make display for small items.)
In addition to Lisa’s bedding, we did sell a few magnets, odds
and ends, and “Weasel Warhol” tees.
All in all, we paid for our table and netted $200. Not one of our
better fund raisers as the foot traffic in the shows seems to be
dwindling , but it was a day well spent !
Many many hours were logged in by friends /volunteers Karen,
Kasey and Jay, Carly , Julie and Herman, Erica, Lisa, Jennifer,
Andrea and kids, Farida, Michelle, Laurel, Melissa J, Jacob,
Stacy and Brittany who lovingly took care of the shelter and the
ferrets , were glued to the Mac and Photo shop in helping bring
Weasel Warhol to the public , or in the sweatshop cutting decals

or ironing ..
Mostly , thanks to Tom for being the self sustained man he is,
and for never haven given me that dreaded ultimatum :)

Nancy Wilson
Director
The Ferret Inn

Spring is here!

2011-04-03T07:58:00.005-04:00

Spring is here and that means longer sunny days, flowers, singing birds and if yours haven't already started, shedding ferrets!

Unlike cats, ferrets can't 'cough up' any fur they ingest while grooming themselves during shedding time. If preventative measures aren't taken you can find yourself at the vet for expensive treatments that might even include surgery for intestinal blockages.

What can you do to help?
Regular brushing of your ferret can help eliminate loose fur and can be a great bonding activity. Also giving your ferret regular doses of a hairball remedy will help keep the pipes clear. Not sure what hairball remedy to use? Check with your ferret friendly Vet to recommendations!

Another happy ending!

2011-03-29T19:55:00.002-04:00

Shelby also found a forever home with volunteer Jasmin. We hear he is doing well and making good friends with her ferret!
Congrats!

A great day at the Inn!

2011-03-28T21:54:00.003-04:00

Girly and Clover went in to their forever foster home today. An undeniable connection with foster mom and dad who are volunteers Casey and Jay. Then Matthew, his second visit to the Inn, put a deposit on 3 of the research girls .. he chose them over three other choices of adoptables in playpens Penelope, Gretchen and the Point!!!!! I am ...so happy for those girls who are now 3 yrs.

Finally a string of good people and good luck! update! Casey and Jay ended up adopting the girls :)

Dookie!

2011-03-26T13:15:00.003-04:00

Here is our boy Dookie donning an adorable St. Patty's day ensemble at the Parade in Baltimore On March 12th. . Dookie is a therapy ferret with Pets on Wheels www.petsonwheels .org , and joined his other canine friends (Dookie doesnt know he's a ferret) and walked ,with a little help from Mom Melissa an impressive two miles along the parade route!.. He along with his other buddies with pets on wheels visit nursing homes, assisted living communities, veterans hospitals , programs for the homeless , and the list goes on.

Dookie continues to do well with Chemo and lots of love from his human and ferret family and many friends ...

Pet Photos with Santa Claws

2010-12-06T13:56:00.002-05:00

The Ferret Inn has been given an opportunity to participate in Petsmart's Pet Photos with Santa Claws. I know it's a busy time of year, but please try to come out and get your pet's photo taken with Santa at the following places:

Saturday, December 11th
Annapolis Petsmart
2601 Housley Rd
Annapolis MD 21401

Saturday, December 11th
Bowie Petsmart
4500 Mitchellville Rd
Bowie MD 20716

Saturday, December 18th
Laurel Petsmart
13600 Baltimore Ave
Laurel MD 20707

Sunday, December 19th
Laurel Petsmart
13600 Baltimore Ave
Laurel MD 20707

Photos are $9.95 with your PetPerks card. Each photo comes with a frame, and $5 from each photo sold goes directly to The Ferret Inn.

Giving Back..

2010-09-03T12:22:00.013-04:00

Hello Friends,

In my 10 years+ of sheltering, I have learned that ferrets are good for more

than pooping and performing. They are what brings good hearted people

together for a common cause. It is because of the goodness and caring of

these dedicated volunteers, adopters, and supporters who call the "Inn"

their own, that we have created a family among friends, and a sanctuary for

our charges.

Each of our volunteers has carved their own niche, and has their own reason

to continue to come back week after week ,many, year after year. In over 10

years, collectively, we have nurtured, cleaned up after, and re-homed

roughly 1000 ferrets . It is because of friendships made, love affairs with

ferrets, and in support of our cause that they continue to return.

As shelter director my hope is that when the last hand feed is done, the

litter boxes are scrubbed, the hammies are fluffed, and the last playgroup

is looking for a cuddle sack to crash in; each of my volunteers can be proud

of the difference they have made.

With that being said, many of our summer volunteers headed back to the

classrooms, and the weasels begin to nestle in for Autumn weather. We are a

501c3 and you can earn community service hours with us. Do you know of some

responsible students looking to accumulate hours? Additionally, many of our

weekday volunteers were professionals who chose to keep busy volunteering

while job hunting. Now that unemployment has taken it's course, several of

these women and men have obtained jobs in different fields, and we will miss

them.

Whether you are interested in helping with events, cleaning up the shelter,

grooming ferrets or helping with medical issues, there is always something

rewarding to do at The Inn.

Please consider joining our family of volunteers at The "Ferret Inn" today.

We will provide the necessary training, and all the ferret fun that comes

with this animal lover's opportunity. Both weekdays and weekends are

available.

If interested, please contact Nancy Wilson directly via e-mail at ferretpassion@verizon.net.

Or, visit our page on VolunteerMatch.org here.

Sincerely,

Nancy Wilson, Director

The Ferret Inn

Top Priority: Your Action Needed!!!

2010-06-19T16:26:00.006-04:00

Maryland and surrounding area ferret shelters are full and this is the break we need! This will cost you nothing but a few moments of your time and we can do it. We must do it!
Okay ferret friends and animal lovers, here is your chance to make a difference not only for ferrets, but exotics, cats, dogs and all homeless animals. Chadwell Animal hospital is teaming up with Luna’s House, to open a 14,000 sq ft vetted animal shelter/ education center. The new facility will allow a room dedicated to ferrets!! They have acquired the property, now they need help with funding for the renovations. Maryland ferret shelters are full and this is the break we desperately need!!!

EVERY DAY in JUNE you can vote for Luna’s House to help them become the Pepsi Challenge $250,000 grant recipient, and helping them will help our cause!

Here’s how:

1. go to http://www.refresheverything.com

2. Register by going to the bottom of the page and clicking on “Join Refresh Everything”

3. Once registered, you are entitled to 10 votes per day but PLEASE only vote for Luna’s House in the 250k category 1x per day. If you vote for others in the 250k are, it will compete with Luna’s.

4. To find Luna’s House, click in the search field and type in Luna’s House. Click return/enter

5. You will see Luna’s House and “Rehab a foreclosed car dealership to establish an animal shelter”. Click on “Vote for this Idea”

6. Once voted, you will see acknowledgement and the ability to tweet and share on your face book page (please do this if you are a face book person)

Don’t forget to vote again tomorrow, and every day in June, and to pass along to friends and family!

Please take a moment to look at the video on Luna’s house website.

Please vote NOW, and every day in June, and pass it on to family, friends, and any lists, or groups !!!! There are only 12 days left to vote and we currently rank #45 as of this posting. We can and MUST do better!!!!

Thanks for helping The Ferret Inn help Luna’s House!!!!!!

Benefit for The Inn at "Bark"

2010-05-21T14:12:00.007-04:00

Hello Friends,

Bark!, our favorite pet supply retailer, will be sponsoring a benefit for The Ferret Inn, donating ten percent of ALL sales made on Sunday, May 30th.

"Bark! is a locally-owned and operated business that not only offers pets and their owners choices in grain-free “pawsitive petfood” but all kinds of cool accessories and must-haves that are organic, environmentally-friendly, and locally made"

For more information, check out their website: http://www.barknatural.com/

That’s a wonderful easy win for The Inn…all you have to do to help is stop by one of two store locations in Olney or Clarksville on Sunday and buy your pet supplies. Your purchases will not only help The Inn, but will also support local businesses and protect the environment. Click on the link for event details, including directions to both locations: Bark Events

Stop by either store between 12:00pm – 4:00pm and meet the volunteers from The Inn as well as some ADORABLE, adoptable ferrets. We will also have handmade bedding sets by Lisa O. and some great new ferret goodies. However, it doesn’t matter what time you shop! The Ferret Inn will still benefit from all sales for the entire day. Please be sure to thank Bark! for their generosity.

We look forward to seeing you there, and please pass it on !

AA County Walk for the Animals

2010-04-27T15:47:00.003-04:00

Here we go again!

This Sunday, May 2, is the Anne Arundel County SPCA 19th annual Walk for the Animals. It will be held at beautiful Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis. The event is from 8AM to noon, rain or shine. Ferrets are welcome, along with other types of furry kids. There is also a leash free dog park located within the park. You can choose a 1 mile, 2.5 mile, or 5 mile course if you decide to walk. But you can also just come and stop by all of the vendor booths. The Anne Arundel County Police’s K9 Unit puts on a fun demonstration from 10 to 11.

The Ferret Inn will be there at one of the booths with adoptable ferrets. We will also be selling bedding, stickers, magnets, and t-shirts. We hope to see you there.

You can visit www.aacspca.org for more information about the Walk for the Animals, including directions to Quiet Waters Park.

2010-04-20T20:38:00.001-04:00

March for the Animals a Success

We attended the Maryland SPCA March for the Animals at Druid Hill Park in Baltimore this past Sunday. It was probably the biggest event we have been at to date, with thousands of people attending - along with a variety of four legged critters. Thanks go out to The MD SPCA for letting us be a part of their 15th annual March for the Animals.

A BIG “Thank You” goes out to Nancy and Tom Wilson, Jessica Welsh, and Tiffany Dunnigan for making our first SPCA event a success!

We were able to catch up with some old friends, make some new friends (animals and people alike - including ferret owners, ferrets, and even a goat named Dandelion), raise some funds for the shelter, and get our name out there. The ferrets did great and are probably still sleeping off all the excitement.

We missed everyone who wasn’t able to make it this year. It was quite an experience!

Hopefully you will be able to make it out to our next event with the Anne Arundel County SPCA Walk for the Animals on May 2 at Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis. (More information to follow)

Thank you once again to all who contributed to this most recent success!

2010-04-14T12:21:00.002-04:00

March for the Animals

The 2010 March for the Animals will be held on Sunday, April 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Druid Hill Park. Join us for this fun-packed day of demonstrations, great contests, entertainment and the 1.5-mile walk to benefit the Maryland SPCA.

The Ferret Inn will be there manning one of the vendor booths. The weather is supposed to be beautiful. What other excuse do you need?

Stop by our booth to purchase some new bedding for your fuzzy friends, buy some fun stuff for you, or just say hi! We hope to see you there!

Visit www.mdspca.org/events for more information about the March for the Animals.

Raffle Winner and AFA Show a Success

2010-03-22T18:48:00.003-04:00

Congratulations go out to Sheryl Atencio of Groton, Connecticut for

winning the 6 piece bedding set!

This past weekend The Ferret Inn attended the Spring Nationals in
York, PA. As you all know, show weekends mean a lot more work for
everyone, but it is a worthy cause.

Our girls, Choco Latte and Mandy, both won 2nd place in specialty
classes.
The goodies baked by our own “pastry chef Pam” as we noted on the
pricing sign did great as usual.

We are very pleased, and want to thank all of you who
helped make it happen. Including the behind the scenes’ folk. Lynn,
our one woman design team, Farida and Bonnie who took care of the
stay at home ferrets and Crystal for manning the booths at Petco by
herself Sat and Sun, the most beautiful two days of the year thus far!

And, as always, Lisa O's bedding set donated towards the raffle

We truly missed seeing our good buds Tracy and John, our gourmet
foods and coffee buddies from Rhode Island, but we know they were
with us in spirit! Hopefully we will see you at the next show!

Thank you once again to all who contributed to this most recent
success!

Giving Thanks

2009-11-03T15:09:00.006-05:00

Cookie, a resident of the Inn, participates in this year's Giving Tree. (Click here to sponsor Cookie)

Dear Friends and Family of The Ferret Inn,

As we approach this holiday season, I want to personally give thanks to all the beautiful fuzzy creatures who have come and gone from our lives this year, as well as to all the wonderful human lives whose paths have crossed with my own as volunteers or friends of The Ferret Inn.

This year has brought two special losses for me. First Sam, and then Blackie. Many of you were familiar with Blackie and Sam, and helped care for them while they spent days and nights at The Inn. I want to thank each of you, for caring for my kids as if they were your own, as you tended to their meds, and gruel, and gave them kisses and hugs.

Many of you have suffered similar losses, including long term residents of The Inn such as our precious Mary, and Hunny.

What would life be for any of us without our precious furkids?

This year has seen great economic challenges for all shelters and rescues. Each one of my now 7 (previously 9 ) furkids were once residents of The Ferret Inn. I am deeply grateful that they were delivered to The Inn, were they could be properly cared for, vetted, vaccinated, and nursed back to health, both physically and emotionally, and finally prepared for their forever home: MY HOME!. How lucky I am to receive such joy.

What would life be with no shelter?

Please remember, in this season of giving thanks, who cared for our furkids, and who was there to receive them when they were discarded by their previous owners, often malnutritioned, dehydrated, injured or neglected. The Ferret Inn has spent well over 12 thousand dollars in veterinary care alone this year, much less the cost of daily care...bedding, food, cleaning supplies, utility bills, transportation, etc.

I am asking each of you, whose lives have been touched by The Ferret Inn, to consider picking a ferret to sponsor from the annual Ferret Giving Tree 2009, and to donate food, or to vet bills, or to volunteer a few more hours as a sign of hope that The Ferret Inn can continue to thrive with all of your generosity and help for yet another year, to offer a special respite to tired, weak, old or sick ferrets until they find their forever home. Click on this link to The Giving Tree and choose tree 26 where 10 of our precious ferret residents can be sponsored, beginning with Violet and ending with Blaze.

Sincerely,

Bonnie Russell

Secretary, The Ferret Inn

Slinky also joins the tree (click here to sponsor Slinky)

Boarding at The Ferret Inn

2009-10-02T14:44:00.006-04:00

The Ferret Inn provides 24 hour fully supervised boarding in an ADV negative
home setting.
It is our mission to provide a caring, safe, and enriching experience for
your ferret. You can be confident that while you are away, your pet will
receive the highest quality of care, by very knowledgeable caregivers.

We encourage you to visit before boarding your ferret so that we may answer
all your questions.

Boarding fees range from $9.00 per night to $18.00, per single ferret, and
whether or not you have previously adopted from The Ferret Inn. There is an
additional charge for critical care. Prices vary for more than one ferret
per night.
Call Nancy at #410-531-4936 for more details. All boarders will be required to sign a
boarding contract at the time of boarding. ADV testing for your ferret is
offered at least one week prior to boarding at a cost of $25.00.

References available.

The Ferret Inn at the Fandango

2009-09-27T17:52:00.016-04:00

The Ferret Inn had a successful showing at the semi-annual Ferret Fandango, an AFA sponsored show hosted by The Pennsylvania Ferret Club.

Our little shelter girl, "Mandy" won the prestigious title of "Senorita of the Fandango" and is the proud winner of the coveted Sombrero! She also pulled off a second in the Mutt class and was on her best behavior throughout the show.

The beautiful "Love a Weasel" bedding set raffle drawing was held at 4:00 PM at the show. Lindsay Forgette, an attendee of the Fandango, was the proud winner!

Between Lisa O's popular bedding sets and Pam Z's baked gourmet goodies sales, we have replenished our funds. 100% of the proceeds of the sales go towards the care of the ferrets.

Annual Volunteer Appreciation

2009-08-17T11:32:00.014-04:00

Volunteers and Supporters attended The Ferret Inn's Annual Volunteer Appreciation Pool Party and Memorial Service held in Burtonsville, MD this past Saturday, August 15th. Tom Wilson served up some wonderful rotisserie roast beef along with his specialty drink, homemade Mojitos! Plenty of delicious vegetarian dishes were also served for our non-carnivorous brethren. A very touching and private ceremony was held during the event so that this past year's losses could be remembered.

Volunteer Appreciation Party 2009

MISSING FERRET IN COLUMBIA-HELP

2009-08-13T14:36:00.004-04:00

A resident of nearby apartments, Tamar Meadow, located in Columbia MD 21045, contacted us to say her ferret escaped from her apartment on August 8th.

We have sent her suggestions on locating her missing ferret.

If you find a ferret in Columbia, MD, please contact us and we can put you in touch with the owner. See pictures. We do not yet know the ferret's name but according to the owner, he is very friendly.

Thank you!

FOLLOW-UP Monday, August 17th. As commented in this article, the ferret has not yet been found. His owner is offering a $100.00 reward for his safe return. His name is Pole Cat

In Loving Memory

2009-07-15T11:36:00.039-04:00

There is Something about Mary....

Long term resident of The Ferret Inn, our beautiful Mary has passed after a long struggle with Lymphoma. Mary came to us in February of 2008 from a wildlife sanctuary where she appeared to be about five.

Ever since her arrival at "The Inn", we knew there was something special about our Mary.

With a sparse, coarse coat and an earthy smell we attempted an adrenal surgery. Early into surgery it was apparent that adrenal disease was the least of her worries and a histology was done. Sadly the diagnosis was Lymphoma, Mary began chemo shortly thereafter.

Over her year and a half with us, she underwent many different chemo treatments and had thrived despite her bouts of various infections as a side effect of the chemo. Throughout these many treatments (including acupuncture), Mary always kept her high-spirited personality and nurturing ways. She had the most wonderful gift of "cleaning up" anyone in her presence...from ear, to chin, to eyes, to nose..Mary would gently lick all the dirt away from human and animal.

Mary also held a special spot for other sick or elderly ferrets and soon became the resident nurse. She would lie down beside other ferrets and gently clean them and nurture them while they were ill. She even seemed to take special attention to ferrets who suffered from lymphoma like herself. Everyone who visited The Inn would immediately take to little Mary, as she always permitted being hugged and doted over by strangers, family and friends.

In the photo above, Mary cuddles with Blackie, another close ferret friend with lymphoma. In the photo below, Mary gives gentle re-assurance to a dying ferret endearingly known as "1722" , one of our little research gals who also had cancer.

Mary will be sorely missed by many but no one held her closer to his heart than did her sponsor of many months, her" Papa Scott". Not only did he help finance Mary' many months of medical care, but spent many hours visiting with Mary and her friends. Scott visited Mary and her friends at The Inn frequently and would sit and rock Mary to sleep.

He is shown below cradling Mary at our vet's office

Mary was a heroine among ferrets and will be missed by all.

Preventing Fleas and Ear Mites

2009-07-10T11:43:00.011-04:00

Ferrets are susceptible to both fleas and ear mites, especially during the increasingly warm summer months.
Let's cover nasty fleas first!.
At The Ferret Inn, we have rescued ferrets infested with fleas who were extremely anemic and needed blood transfusions to save their life. Fleas literally feed off of an animals blood and flesh, leaving a two pound animal defenseless. Fleas can also carry tapeworms to your ferrets.
At The Ferret Inn, we use a flea preventative once a month called FrontLine spray. Our vet also recommends using a product called Revolution. Both of these products can be properly dosed and obtained from your ferret knowledgeable veterinarian.
Revolution can also prevent heartworms (yes, ferrets can also get heartworms from mosquitoes), and ear mites.
Ear Mites are a common pest with ferrets and can lead to ear problems if left untreated. Your ferret does not have to go outside to come in contact with either ear mites! They can live in ferret bedding, carpeting, furniture, etc. The best thing is to use a monthly preventative. We use a product called Ivermectin, which can be obtained and properly dosed be your ferret knowledgeable vet.
How can you tell if your ferret has fleas, tapeworms, or ear mites? Fleas can result in an extra itchy ferret and you should regularly use a flea comb to comb through your ferrets hair if you suspect fleas. Fleas also leave behind 'flea dirt" which looks like little tiny speckles of black in the ferrets hair close to the skin. As for ear mites, the ear wax of a ferret tends to become very dark ,almost blackish. Ear mites can be detected by a qualified vet who will do a swab sample and run it under a microscope. The presence of tapeworms, and other GI parasites can only be confirmed through a fecal sample at your vets office. Even so, it can take multiple samples for proper detection.
NEVER assume that a common dog or cat flea product can be used on a ferret. Some can be highly toxic or fatal.

Adoption updates

2009-06-14T22:03:00.004-04:00

Congratulations for the following ferrets who were adopted in the last few days:

Marley and Peebles

Clyde and Isis

Jackie O

Flea and Punkin Pie

Dookers, Hank, Butterball, Solomon

5 things every ferret owner should know

2009-06-06T17:23:00.011-04:00

Health issues. Ferrets make great pets. Unfortunately, they are prone to many potentially deadly health issues. About 80% of all ferrets will develop adrenal disease or insulinoma. Since ferrets who are over three-years-old are considered geriatric, owners should expect to have at least one surgery during that ferret's lifetime. Read more about these two illnesses (and others) on miamiferret.org.
Play time. People often associate ferrets with rabbits, guinea pigs, and mice because of their small stature and furry bodies. That's about the only things ferrets have in common with these other animals. Ferrets are not cage animals. They need to play around the house as a cat or dog would. They need constant stimulation, enrichment and interaction. Ferret owners should have large cages for their ferrets as a safety, since ferrets cannot be supervised around the clock. Read more about what games ferrets like to play.
Blockages and hairball prevention. Laxatives made for ferrets should be given about twice a week. Ferrets need lax to help prevent hairballs. Unlike cats, ferrets cannot throw up a hairball. Some ferrets are very fond of eating things they shouldn't eat, such as rubber, cotton, cloth, etc. All of those things can cause a potentially deadly blockage. Lax cannot remove all blockages; sometimes surgery is the best solution. Read more blockages here and here.

Carnivores. Ferrets are obligate carnivores, which means they are strict meat-eaters. Anything with fruits, vegetables, or sugar should never be fed to ferrets. A diet free of sugars and low in carbohydrates may help prevent insulinoma. If you are unsure what to feed your ferret, check out this handy food chart.

Ferret-knowledgeable vets. One of the most important things you can do to your ferret is finding a ferret-knowledgeable vet. Please note that just because a vet says s/he treats ferrets, it does not mean that the vet is qualified. Make sure to ask a potential ferret vet these important questions. To find a ferret vet close to you, click here.

LOST FERRET - "TWIX" Needs your help

2009-06-02T20:56:00.008-04:00

(Update on Search for Twix: On Wednesday eve, a group of us canvassed a very overwhelming neighborhood, with literally thousands of wonderful places for ferrets to hide and nest. We walked in the woods,which were very dense, talked to anyone we saw on the streets, and a group of kids, and stuck fliers in every single mailbox in surrounding neighborhoods. No sign of Twix yet but we haven't given up hope. I will give another update in a week's time, even if nothing new is known)

A ferret friend of The Ferret Inn named "Twix" has been reported lost from his home in Davidsonville, MD. He got out sometime Sunday night (May 31st) or Monday morning and the family is devastated. They live in a residential development but back up to some extensive wooded areas.
The family has searched the surrounding areas and has made many efforts to find poor Twix.
So far we have done the following
Contacted:
Anne Arundel Animal Control
Anne Arundel SPCA
Craigslist
MDSPCA
Petfinder Lost and Found
Posted on ferretvillage.org
Handed out fliers to neighbors mailboxes.
Visited some neighbors

We have also recommended that the family contact and post at all local pet stores and vets.

Spotlight on volunteer: Crystal

2009-05-31T16:54:00.003-04:00

Crystal Hughes is Officer of Public Outreach. She organizes adoptions day, which helps ferrets find homes with responsible owners. She's been with the Inn for three years and has recently adopted a ferret, Nina.

You organize events, such as adoption days. What does a regular adoption day consist of? Ferrets are still pretty uncommon to a lot of people. We get a lot of questions like "How long does a ferret live? What do they eat? Are they litter box trained? Don't they bite?" Kids love to hold the ferrets and watch them run through the tubes. We usually have a crowd at adoption events!

Why did you decide to volunteer at a ferret shelter? I've always loved ferrets and wanted to help educate the public about them and find forever homes for them.

What's the most satisfying aspect of volunteering? Knowing that I'm helping to give a ferret a chance at a happy life.

What is it about ferrets that you love? They're silly and playful and mischievous. How can you not crack up when a ferret does the weasel war dance? Or steals objects five times their size? Each ferret has their own personality and "quirks". Ferrets really know how to make the most of life.

How did you get into owning ferrets in the first place? An old friend of mine adopted a couple of ferrets from a shelter. They were so much fun that I decided to adopt two myself. That quickly went from two ferrets to six ferrets!

You recently adopted Nina from the shelter. How did you come to adopt her? Nina came from a pretty bad situation. She was living on a diet of bologna, Cheerios, and dried banana crisps -- that is, when the owner remembered to feed her. Her water bottle was empty and her litter box was overflowing. When Nancy got her, she was dehydrated and wouldn't eat gruel or kibble on her own. I agreed to foster her to make sure she was eating enough and so that she wouldn't have to deal with the stress of the shelter. It wasn't long before I fell in love and adopted her.

What is the most important thing that people who want to adopt should know about ferrets? Ferrets aren't cage animals like gerbils and hamsters. They need mental stimulation and interaction with their humans on a daily basis.

Spotlight on a Special Volunteer

2009-05-07T10:53:00.013-04:00

I submitted this essay to the American Humane Association in hopes of awarding a $1000.00 prize to Melissa, for all the wonderful work she has done for ferrets over the years. She will always be a winner in my book. Please read on...

Melissa poses with two ferrets "Mothership" and "Lula"

Melissa Williams is like no other young woman I know and probably not like anyone you are likely to meet. To name a single selfless act or event for the benefit or welfare of animals would not begin to describe the contributions that Melissa has made, nor would it demonstrate the kind of devotion, dedication, and perseverance that defines what a remarkable individual she is. At 14 years of age Melissa adopted her first ferret from The Ferret Inn and began volunteering. Most impressive was the determination she showed as she struggled to make arrangements to secure transportation to and from the shelter every Saturday – a round trip of more than 60 miles! She has adopted nine more ferrets, fostered an additional five ferrets, and comforted a few as they have “crossed over the Bridge”.

She has accompanied and assisted me in dozens of vet appointments. Her mature and inquisitive presence made it easy for the vet to allow her to observe a variety of surgical procedures performed on own her pet ferrets as well as on those that she has rescued and cared for. Melissa quickly became familiar with the procedures and protocols in the shelter and every name and case history of more than forty resident ferrets. She learned to perform triage on incoming animals and to provide a range of critical care tasks from syringe feeding to administering medications including sub-cutaneous fluids with confidence, accuracy, and absolute reliability.

Melissa was my first choice to be in charge for a week while I attended a seminar in Canada. Although only fifteen years old at the time she stayed at the shelter and performed the duties of shelter director, was directly responsible for all the shelter operations, and oversaw a crew of 4 to 6 others including adults. Her performance far exceeded anyone’s expectations but was par for the course for Melissa.

At seventeen Melissa trains new volunteers, attends ferret education seminars and adoptions days, helps in screening applicants for adoption, and performs pre-adoption home visits. Through education she helps to ensure that ferrets adopted from The Ferret Inn have the best chance of a successful match with loving and responsible owners. In addition to everything she does at the shelter she is an honor student, a softball coach, and a text message away when my memory fails me. She is a mentor, a role model, an example, a leader, and a friend. She is at the very least a unique and very special young woman.
Sincerely,
Nancy Wilson, Director

Before and after: Tim Tooten and Tom Tasselmyer

2009-04-28T21:07:00.004-04:00

Tim Tooten and Tom Tasselmyer are a bonded pair who were surrendered to a local shelter. We fell in love with them and named them after WBAL's news reporters. Poor Tom was severly underweight when he arrived: 1 pound 8 ounces. Since then, he's managed to gain a whole pound.

Both ferrets make great companions. Tom is the more cuddly one while Tim is more energetic. Both are doing well at The Inn but would love to find a forever home.

Volunteers at The Ferret Inn

2009-03-07T11:31:00.003-05:00

Volunteers hold some precious cargo, after a hard days cleaning of the shelter. There are many volunteer opportunities at The Ferret Inn. For more information, please click here.

February update

2009-02-28T14:21:00.009-05:00

Adopted:

Isaac
Miss Fifi
Dillo, one of the five new Black Jacks,
Calypso, Sasuke and Goku
Hoops and Yoyo

Arrivals:

5 Black Jacks
Nina
Janet

Deaths:

Diesel

Sad Tidings.... Diesel

2009-02-24T11:46:00.007-05:00

Diesel, the elder and mascot at the Ferret Inn, has crossed over the bridge. He came to us in Jan 2006 at 6 years old, sick and with only a few sprouts of white hair and that distinctive black nose. Diesel had two adrenal/insulinoma surgeries while here at the Inn, which left him with a stunning white coat and a new lease on life. In his younger days, he was our ambassador and would frequent outings and ferret education days with us. He had since retired and had found our carpeted bed room to be most comfortable, at which he had time and time again left his mark on as most seniors do.
Up till his passing he received regular acupuncture treatments to keep him comfortable and well balanced.
Diesel was a favorite with all who treated him, the visitors and the volunteers. Until we meet again my Diese…

Click here to see more pictures of Diesel.

New arrival: more Black Jacks!

2009-02-03T17:20:00.005-05:00

Five new fitches were delivered today from the same research facility that brought us the 21 Black Jacks! When it come to good fortune, The Ferret Inn has been privileged to receive these newcomers.

Twelve Black Jacks remain from the original group of 21. The 5 newcomers have already taken a liking to their friends with very familiar faces. And even though they have been provided with some enrichment, they have had limited human interaction. So we are always amazed at what wonderful companions these girls make.

January update

2009-01-31T15:39:00.008-05:00

Adopted:

Tico was adopted by two new ferret owners. We thought Tico's disposition would be great for first-time owners.

Three Black Jacks were adopted. The first two were adopted by first-time owners. The other one was the last boy; he joins Auggy, who was adopted last month.
Aries and Socrates join a group of ferrets. This pair made a wonderful addition to the pack of ferrets.
Smokey and Ashley were adopted after spending a few months at the shelter. They are very sweet and we're happy they found a home.
Rob Roblin goes to a home joining the owners' single ferret.

Deaths:

Lyla, one of the Black Jacks, had to be put to sleep because of her lymphoma and enlarged spleen. She will be missed by her life-long cagemates.
Herb also had to be put to sleep. He had a history of liver problems and insulinoma. He leaves his cagemate Peaches.

Be A Sponsor!

2009-01-15T10:39:00.014-05:00

The littlest girl at The Inn!Luna is a delightful 7 year old ferret from Holland! She weighs in slightly under a pound and is in perfect health! Despite her age, she has never required meds or had a surgery. Although Luna is a permanent member at The Inn, you can help us by sponsoring this precious little girl....

There are many medically fragile and senior ferrets who are permanent residents at The Ferret Inn. The little fuzzies require constant vigilance, and fast action on behalf of our Director, Nancy Wilson. Many have chronic insulinoma and adrenal problems even after several surgeries. Consider making a monthly donation of only $5.00 to The Inn. Help pay for food, litter, and annual veterinary costs and you will be a sponsor to Luna or any other needy kids at The Inn! To donate, click on the button below:

December update

2008-12-31T15:20:00.014-05:00

Adopted:

Three Black Jacks were adopted. One was by a volunteer. The ferret was the only one with a pink nose out of all the Black Jacks, so we named her Average White Girl (or Auggie). The other two were adopted by a person who's had ferrets before.
Rag Doll was adopted by a ferret-knowledgeable volunteer. She joins one other ferret and we're happy she ended up in a good home.

Girl Next Door were adopted by a volunteer who had adopted Stan and Stella.

Arrival:

Isaac was surrendered by a person who found him as a stray. He's under a year old and already he's without a home.

Tim Tooten and Tom Tasselmyer, like Rob Roblin, are named after WBAL's news team members. Tim and Tom came to us from a shelter from DC. Tim is under a year and Tom is around two. We can't wait to see what their personalities are like.

Deaths:

Rummy, after our many attempts to treat his insulinoma, he was no longer responding to treatment. He leaves behind his bonded cagemate, Patches. We will always miss Rummy's round baby face.

Happy holidays from The Ferret Inn

2008-12-15T18:31:00.006-05:00

We at The Ferret Inn thank you for your support, especially at this time of year.

Since the holiday season is here, we would like you to think about the animals that don't yet have homes. You can help The Ferret Inn by shopping through iGive, a program that donates a portion of your money to The Inn that you spend on online purchases. So far The Ferret Inn has received over a hundred dollars from your purchases.

Additionally, if you prefer to directly donate an item to the shelter that we could use, please visit our "wishlist" on Amazon.com.

You can also make a tax-deductible donation to The Ferret Inn right before the end of this year to help you on your tax returns for 2008. Due to the economy, ferret shelters in Maryland are at full capacity and we are no exception. We are currently providing shelter for more ferrets than we have ever had in the history of the Inn; therefore, our overall operating costs and vet bills are at an all-time high.

We thank you for your continuing financial support and hope you have a happy holiday season.

November update

2008-11-30T16:47:00.008-05:00

Adopted:

Marty and Blaze are being fostered permanently. The pair has been in three different foster homes and we're happy that they have finally settled down.
Another Black Jack has found a home and we hope she benefits from a loving environment.
Buffy and Jody were adopted and join a group of three other ferrets. This energetic duo deserved to go to a good home after spending almost a year at the shelter.

Arrivals:

Rob Roblin was found abandoned in an empty apartment. We're surprised that his abandonment has left no damaging effects to his playfulness and overall appearance. We're excited to see him develop into an even more beautiful ferret!
Since her arrival, Punkin Pie has already gained six ounces and is on her way to recovery. Despite being severely neglected, Punkin Pie has been a sweetheart.
The aptly named Girl Next Door was surrendered by one of the neighbors of the director. Up until her arrival at The Ferret Inn, she has never been out of her cage. When we let her out for the first time, she didn't know what to do with herself! She's about 8 months old, has beautiful soft fur and unique markings over her body.

Before and after: Flea

2008-11-27T22:07:00.003-05:00

Flea doesn't even look like the ferret she was just one month ago. When she arrived at The Ferret Inn, Flea was severely underweight and anemic because she had so many fleas on her. Her cage mate was not as fortunate and died a few hours after being rescued by our volunteers.

Both Flea and Rob Roblin come from the same local animal shelter. They have taken a liking to each other and are now cage mates. Flea is becoming more and more playful and never misses and opportunity to dook as loud as she can. Flea is looking better everyday and can't wait for a permament home.

New arrival: Pumpkin Pie

2008-11-25T17:16:00.010-05:00

Poor Pumpkin Pie was found in a cage outside on the freezing weather. She was put outside because the mom didn't want the smell in the house and the daughter lost interest. She was surrendered by an acquaintance of the previous owner. The guy who rescued her took her to a vet, but after the vet could not get a blood sample, the vet released her saying she'd have to stay overnight. She was then taken to The Ferret Inn and was unresponsive, severely dehydrated, barely breathing, and with a body temperature so low that the thermometer would not register. She was rushed to a ferret-knowledgeable vet and stayed overnight. Twenty-four hours later, she is conscious and able to move herself. Seeing how this is one of the worst neglect cases the director has seen, we cannot believe that she is alive today.

She also shows many burns on her foot pads and nose (possibly due to the severe cold), her legs are injured and still has trouble walking. She's very underweight and shy. However, she is eating dry kibble, prescription canned food and drinking water. We expect her to be in critical care for the next few weeks. This little chocolate has a cute mouse face and is probably around two years old. We can't wait for her to benefit from the nurturing environment that she's always deserved.

The Giving Tree 2008

2008-11-25T16:17:00.007-05:00

The Giving Tree is up for this holiday season. All of these ferrets are shelter ferrets like our own at The Ferret Inn. People can choose a ferret and send them gifts based on what's on their wish list. We all know how many resources it takes to raise them, so we encourage people to think about the ferrets this holiday season.

Ferrets from The Ferret Inn can be found on page 4. Please make sure to check out all fourteen pages.

Spotlight on volunteers: Amanda

2008-11-22T15:53:00.004-05:00

Amanda Mitchel has been with The Ferret Inn since the beginning of October 2008. She moved from Arizona and graduated from Middlebury College in Vermont. She's had four ferrets and currently works as a theater intern in DC.

How did you get interested in ferrets?

Well, when I was about 8, my mother and I decided it was time to get a pet that wasn't a rodent. Since my dad is allergic to cats and dogs, we decided a rabbit would be perfect. We researched for weeks, were all set up, went to the pet store--and fell in love with their only ferret. It's been true love ever since!

How did you find out about us and what made you want to volunteer?

Ever since I had to get rid of my ferrets when I went college, I've just missed being around them terribly. Once I realized I had some free weekends here, I started researching ferret shelters where I could donate some time. The Ferret Inn seemed particularly in need of help--and also particularly close, haha.

What's your favorite part about volunteering at The Ferret Inn?

Being around all the crazy personalities! Furry and otherwise.

And the least favorite part?

Well...honestly, who likes cleaning up poopy newspapers?

Do you have any favorite ferrets?

Haha, yeah. I just can't resist little Luna, Kitty, Clyde, Thelma and Louise, and Calypso. And then of course there's Aries and Socrates...and Tiff (one of the BlackJack 21).

What were your ferrets like?

Oh, I could go on for ages about my ferrets! But I'll try to sum them up. Ricki was my first ferret; she wasn't much of a cuddler, but kept us laughing. Bandit came along a bit later; she and Ricki were thick as thieves, but Bandit died shortly after we got her. Crysta was a little princess, who wanted nothing to do with any other ferrets, but loved people. She liked to hoard toys, too, and make little nests of her 'babies'. Cliff was the only ferret who could deal with Crysta, mainly becuase he was too doofy to realize she was trying to beat him up. He was incredibly sweet, and just always wanted to be around everybody (except in the living room...he was scared of it!).

What's it like not living with them anymore?

Not living with them now is a terribly hard adjustment. I miss the endless supply of love and smiles; I miss always having a playmate; I even miss having my feet bitten when I'm asleep! I don't know what else to say--it's like not having a pet. Fewer responsibilities, fewer bills, sure--but fewer rewards as well.

The Ferret Inn values its volunteers tremendously and is always in need of more. If you are interested in volunteering at The Ferret Inn, please email Fili at fili.telles@gmail.com.

New arrival: Rob Roblin

2008-11-19T17:22:00.006-05:00

Rob Roblin was found abandoned in an empty apartment. We cannot believe someone would leave behind this cuddly little guy. Despite coming from a neglected situation, Rob is sweet and has already become comfortable enough to dook and dance around the room.

We think he's around one and a half years old. And even though he looks healthy, he's a little thin. We're working on fattening him up to a healthy weight. We're surprised that his abandonment has left no damaging effects to his playfulness and overall appearance. We're excited to see him develop into an even more beautiful ferret!

To see more pictures of Rob Roblin, click here.

Ferret and human flu season

2008-11-10T17:17:00.001-05:00

Did you know that your ferrets can get the same strains of influenza as humans? And even more likely is that they will catch it from you, not vice versa! So remember to wash your hands thoroughly before handling your ferret(s) during this flu season and to avoid close contact if you or your ferret are exhibiting flu symptoms.

For more information, Dr. McLeod, DVM, writes a good article about ferrets and flu.

October update

2008-10-31T19:14:00.006-04:00

Adopted:

Dookie went to a home after a long time at the shelter. After his bilateral adrenal surgery, his two cagemates Fiona and Cheedle no longer recognized him and Dookie had to be separated from his group. We are delighted that this story has a happy ending after all.
One of the two male ferrets from the Black Jack 21 group was adopted by a loving ferret owner. Having never been in a home, the Black Jack boy will thrive in his new place.
Templeton and Wilbur, the two strays that were reunited at the shelter, have been adopted. They will be missed, but we are happy they finally found a home.

Cesar was adopted by me. He's since been renamed "Gummy Bear" and loves Opie, my other ferret.

Deaths:

Chloe underwent surgery on October 22 for adrenal disease and insulinoma. A hairball was found during the surgery and was removed. Unfortunately, she did not recover from surgery and passed away on October 24.

Flea #2 came from an animal shelter with a cage mate (Flea #3). They were both anemic because they were infested with fleas. Sadly, Flea #2 did not make it despite the efforts of our volunteers.

Arrivals:

Flea #3 has been at The Inn for a little over two weeks, and after being severely underweight and anemic, her weight has already doubled and she looks better every day. While at the vet, she received a life-saving blood transfusion from the Black Jack boy (who was adopted later).

Since their arrival, The Black Jack 21 have become more playful and comfortable in their new environment. We are always excited to see the different personalities developing among the sea of weasels. We placed the group in a tree-story Ferret Nation cage. And even though the levels are all connected, the entire group prefers to sleep on top of each other.

Spotlight on volunteers: Cortney

2008-10-27T16:45:00.015-04:00

Cortney Baca has been with The Ferret Inn since the beginning of September 2008. She got married in June and moved from New Mexico in July. She's been coming Tuesdays and Thursdays and, other than scooping and fluffing, she's The Ferret Inn's "scribe."

How did you become interested in ferrets and The Ferret Inn?

My husband and I have always loved animals, and we're constantly looking for new ways to help and to bring new critters into our lives. When we first moved here, I needed a job and was searching online for a job where I could put my love for furry friends to good use. I saw your website and was touched by the work, but I was very busy then, so I put it in the back of my mind. A month or so later, we were at a pet store picking up food, litter, etc. and Antony was really into the ferrets. I suggested we learn more about taking care of them and went home to research online. I read loads of information, but I wanted something more concrete.Then it clicked! I remembered "the Ferret Inn" online, and thought what better way to learn more about them than to volunteer and care for them hands-on. The rest, as they say, is history!

Do you have any ferrets, or other pets?

We don't have any ferrets yet, we are still getting settled into our new life and think that ferret keeping is a big project better suited for our future goals. We do have 3 fishtanks with various aquatic friends and 3 rescue cats that have come into our lives. Midna, Ganon and Azrael.

What's your favorite part about volunteering at The Ferret Inn?

I'd have to go with....kisses. No, maybe cucumber snack time. Well, maybe its big rowdy play sessions...No, probably Nancy's coffee. Well, lets just say I love everything about volunteering, but most of all I love the feeling of helping out the ones that can't help themselves.

What's your least favorite part about volunteering at The Ferret Inn?

Bad poop.

Do you have a favorite ferret?

I've got several favorites. Jumpin' Bean (from the Black Jack Crew), Luna, Buffy and Jody...those are probably my favorite friends.

How did you learn most of the ferrets' names in just under a month.

I can't remember human names for the life of me, but I've always had a knack for animal names. It might have something to do with the fact that I talk to them all day while I'm cleaning, using names over and over helps you to remember. I feel bad when animals don't have a name, so I like to be polite and use their names whenever I can. :)

You recently got a job. What is it that you do?

I'm teaching dance at a local studio. I've been dancing since I was 13, and am planning on going back to school to finish my dance degree. I love working with the kids and passing on my love of the arts to the next generation.

What's it like to be a newlywed while being away from the people and places you've known your entire life?

It's hard. I miss my friends and family, but we will be seeing them at Christmas. When we were in Las Cruces, NM and El Paso, TX, we were right on the border to Mexico, so one of the things I miss most is authentic Mexican food. We miss the desert some, but the change in scenery is most welcome. I love the trees and creeks, the pathways by our house are gorgeous. That is something you don't get back home. So far as being newlyweds on top of that, there are pros and cons. For the pros, we get to spend lots of time just the two of us, which we didn't back home, because we shared the same group of close-knit friends, so we were always in a big group. For the cons, we spent lots of time just the two of us, hahaha. We can bug each other quickly. We are enjoying settling into our new place and getting to know the area, though.

The Ferret Inn highly values its volunteers and is always in need of more. If you are interested in volunteering at The Ferret Inn, please email Fili at fili.telles@gmail.com.

Special delivery: 21 ferrets!

2008-10-07T17:47:00.020-04:00

We want to introduce you to a new “special collection” of ferrets available for immediate adoption! These 21 ferrets (19 jills and 2 hobbs) have come to us via a research facility. They are some of the most beautiful fitches and points, with little dark noses, luscious coats and lovely dispositions. Prior to their arrival they led a very sterile and unstimulated life. We are always amazed to see how eager they are for affection and are very engaging with our staff. The arrival of these special kids is an event here at the "Inn". Watching these ferrets running through tubes, pouncing on crinkle sacks, and popping in peanuts for the first time, is a real tear jerker! We are grateful that the folks at the research facility have chosen us to mainstream these ferrets into homes and allow them the life they so deserve.

The research done on these little ones has left no ill-effects. In fact, they have all been properly vetted with all shots and are ADV negative! A year of so ago we received a smaller group of ferrets from a research facility and we were able to place each of them into their forever homes in a very short time.

We will be hosting an “Open House” to the public to meet our special houseguests and all of the other beautiful charges that are currently residing at the "Inn".

This is what happened when they were let loose for the first time:

See the rest of the pictures here.

If you are interested in adopting one of these ferrets, please fill out an adoption application.

UPDATE: The Ferret Inn has received 5 more Black Jacks on February 3, 2009.

October is Hairball Awareness Month

2008-10-06T14:10:00.004-04:00

I declare October to be Hairball Awareness Month (or "HAM"). With winter approaching, many ferrets are shedding their summer coats. And keeping the ferrets from getting hairballs during shedding season is vital to their well-being. Plucking or brushing the shedding ferrets, giving them lax, and washing their bedding are just some ways to reduce the likelihood of blockages.

Ferrets on acupuncture

2008-10-02T20:39:00.005-04:00

Tiana Guinard, a certified animal acupuncturist, comes every week to treat ferrets with health issues. She makes sure to treat each ferret according to his or her illness. Today she treated Mary (among many), who enjoyed the extra attention and the food we "bribed" her with.

September update

2008-09-30T15:23:00.004-04:00

Adopted:

Clyde was adopted by a knowledgeable ferret-owner. We're confident that Clyde couldn't be happier.
Maxy was adopted by a volunteer. He joins her three ferrets and hopefully is adjusting just fine.
Syd and Banshee are being fostered by a vet student who fosters and adopts. She is working on Banshee's biting and on socializing the pair.

Stan and Stella were adopted by a ferret-owner who had only one ferret with a three-story Ferret Nation cage. We're sure Stan and Stella will fill in the empty corners of the cage.
Soldier Boy was adopted by a boarder whose ferret bonded with Soldier. All the ferrets will miss biting Soldier's neck fur out, but I'm sure Soldier would feel much happier with a furry neck.
Cheddar was adopted by another volunteer. He joins her group of five, elevating her to "ferret lady" status.

Deaths:

Gracie, one of The Ferret Inn's tiniest residents, passed away on the 12th.
Isabelle leaves her long-time cagemate, Tico.

Arrivals:

Though Rag Doll has only been with us for less than a month, she's already looking much better.

Goku, Calypso, and Sasuke are three beautiful ferrets who are all under a year and huge. Sasuke is over three pounds!
Aries and Socrates are a very cuddly pair. Despite their previous meatless diet, they are stocky and have beautiful coats.
Bonnie, Clyde, and Isis arrived today. The first two are around a year, and Isis is probably a little over one.

Misc. updates:

Pictures of most of our ferrets are online.
Our Petfinders page has been updated with new profiles and some new pictures.
Anyone who shops online can help The Ferret Inn.

RIP Isabelle

2008-09-29T16:04:00.001-04:00

Isabelle, one of The Ferret Inn's newest residents, passed away on Saturday; leaving behind Tico, her cage mate of three years. Isabelle and Tico were a bonded pair; both of which were blind due to a poor diet lacking in taurine. Tico is recovering from a bi-lateral adreanal and insulinoma surgery, as well as having a tumor removed from his chest. Isabelle was sadly in renal failure and passed over the "Bridge " with Tico spooning her. She will be sorely missed...

How to donate money to The Ferret Inn (without actually giving money)

2008-09-21T21:20:00.005-04:00

One of our volunteers, Crystal, pointed us out to iGive.com; a website that donates money to a cause (such as The Ferret Inn) when you shop at stores that you regularly shop from online.

Here's how to do it:

1 . ~~Go to iGive.com, find "The Ferret Inn" and then register with your name.~~ The Ferret Inn now has its own url: www.igive.com/theferretinn.

2. After you register, you must shop by clicking the links on this page (by directories) or this page (alphabetically). (Example: If you want to buy something from Ferret.com, then go one of the previously mentioned links, and click on "Ferret.com".)

After clicking the link for your preferred site to shop, you should see a pop-up window congratulating your philanthropy.

Additionally, if you ever use Google or Yahoo! to search, use iGive's search engine instead, and The Ferret Inn gets $0.02 every time you search for something.

So far, The Ferret Inn has received $61.56 from people who raised it simply by shopping from places they normally would. So please, put your consumerism to good use and shop using iGive.

If any one has any questions, iGive has a frequently asked questions page that could help you. Or, you can ask me a question on the comments and I'd be glad to (attempt to) help.

Before and after: Miss Mary

2008-09-15T21:06:00.001-04:00

Who would have guessed that Miss Mary (or as most of us all call her "Mawwy") would turn into such a beauty! She has been undergoing chemotherapy for lymphoma for the past few months, but she has been thriving. She can often be seen giving kisses to everyone that picks her up; not forgetting to clean that spot in your ear that you "forgot" to clean. When she's not smooching, or looking around with her not-quite-there demeanor, she is sleeping in an acrobatic position in her hammy or her plastic bags.

Click here for more pictures of Mary.

Rest in peace Gracie

2008-09-12T13:33:00.001-04:00

It is with deep sadness that I say goodbye to Gracie. She spent the last hours of her life and let out her last breath while curled up in Nancy's shirt. Gracie was a tiny ferret battling kidney failure. Prior to receiving proper care at The Inn, she spend over a year caged in a vet's office; we are surprised that she had such a calm nature, taking into account where she came from. So I am thankful to Nancy for giving Gracie the medical attention she needed, the home she wanted, and the love she deserved.

Maxy Adopted!

2008-09-11T14:12:00.001-04:00

One of our volunteers, Darlene, came and picked up dear Max on Tuesday evening. We know he will have a wonderful home with his new friends Coco, TJ, and Tony!

The other ferrets at The Inn will miss Max as he was a definite gentleman!

Good Luck Max!

Ferret Fandango of 2008

2008-09-07T19:28:00.001-04:00

Yesterday, The Ferret Inn attended the Ferret Fandango on Gilbertsville PA. We showed Jezebel, our big dark-eyed white.

She took first place in the Albino/Dark-Eyed White category and we couldn't be prouder of her.

We also sold many of Lisa O's bedding; the proceeds from every hammie and sleepy sacks sold are donated 100% to The Ferret Inn.

New arrival: Rag Doll

2008-09-03T19:20:00.003-04:00

Nancy got a call at 7am from a guy who found a stray ferret. He works over at Prince George's county in a facility with a very long acronym. Dean, who called us about the ferret, told us he fed the ferret some bananas, and some tomatoes that his buddy was growing in the back. The ferret was so thirsty that it was drinking dirty rain water. They left the ferret in a large bucket as one of the co-workers drove over to the supermarket to buy some cat food and treats.

Nancy and I were really impressed that Dean didn't shoo away the scrawny ferret. He recognized the animal as a ferret because a few friends owned a ferret. And Dean, who's a hunter, knew the ferret wasn't rabid because he said rabid animals don't/can't drink water.

They were calling the ferret "Shop Rat" but we went with "Rag Doll" because the bucket that she was in was filled with rags.

Nancy thinks she's probably around two-years-old and judging by the hair loss, Rag Doll probably has Adrenal Disease.

Overall, she's in good shape for a ferret that spent a very long time in the heat with no proper food or water.

She loved bath-time. You can't blame her, though. She was terribly greasy.

The camera can't capture how murky and black the water actually got.

I tried to get a kiss, but it didn't really happen.

After some time, she finally ate some food to make her feel better.

See more pictures here.

The Ferret Inn constantly needs volunteers to pick up ferrets from people who find ferrets, or to drive the ferrets to the vet, etc. If this sounds like something you would like to be a part of, please contact Bonnie (at bonnierussell@all2ez.net) or me (at fili.telles@gmail.com).

August update (in September)

2008-09-01T19:05:00.001-04:00

Adopted:

Buster was adopted by a family who boarded their ferrets at the Inn. We were not surprised to learn this cuddly little guy only stayed a few weeks at the shelter.
June Bug and Crayola were adopted by a family with ferret experience. We have no doubt that their energy will serve them well in a new home.
Rascal was adopted by one of our volunteers. We saw him again as a boarder and, even though he's always looked good, we could tell that he was looking even better.
Opie was adopted by yours truly. He is currently stepping on my keyboard as I attempt to type this. Even though I bought him a $200 cage, he still prefers the box that it came in:

Deaths:

Unfortunately, Maggie died of an intestinal blockage due to a hair ball. She leaves her four cage mates who will always miss the littlest one on the group.

Arrivals:

The new girl that came in last Thursday is now called Cotton.
Isabelle and Tico are two dark cinnamons who are having no trouble adjusting to their new environment. We're interested to see their personality develop.
Maxy was given up because his owner had to leave the country. He's a big beautiful boy who loves being picked up and held. He'll have no trouble finding a forever home.

Small animal rescues filling to capacity

2008-08-29T21:49:00.000-04:00

TGIF! Here's a brief round up of pets or ferret-related stories from this week:

There's a problem that we at The Ferret Inn are too familiar with: animals shelters across the country are filled to capacity.
The fact that two black-footed ferrets were born at the zoo is an oldie, but a goodie. But here's the interesting part: it was born using nine-year-old frozen sperm.
How much would you spend to save your pet's life? For some people, not very much. A reader to a column responded: "Basically, my 'frugal' belief (I do not consider myself a cheapskate) is that I paid $110 for our family cocker spaniel from a rescue organization six years ago, and I will pay no more than $110 to keep her alive."
And here's a preview to the infamous ferret documentary that makes the rest of us look sane. I've been told that this is something I need to watch before heading over to Fandango.

New arrival: Cotton

2008-08-28T14:27:00.001-04:00

This adorable fourteen-week-old girl just arrived this morning. She was given up because her cagemate was killed by the previous owner's family dog. And even though she's in a new environment, you could already see her playfulness and sweet nature. ~~As of today, we don't know her name yet!~~ Update: We've since named her "Cotton".

click images for larger size

Two more pictures here.

Pool-side work

2008-08-26T17:31:00.000-04:00

Today was such a beautiful day that Nancy and I decided to work outside. And by work, I mean fill litter boxes with water and watch the ferrets play.

click images for larger size

Ashley wasn't a fan of the cold water.

She preferred to dig.

Sometimes they needed a little ... encouragement to get in.

Miss Fifi, who usually hates her cage, didn't look too happy.

Napster poses peacefully near the water ... before being dunked in.

Clyde's the only one that (voluntarily) jumped in the water.

Adoption day at bark!

2008-08-25T17:54:00.000-04:00

This Saturday, The Ferret Inn was part of an adoption day at our local pet food store, bark! We inform the public why they would want to adopt ferrets (or any other animals) as opposed to buying from a pet store. We bring about half a dozen ferrets to play around in a play pen and most people can't resist them. My favorite part about doing it is seeing how many people are surprised to learn just how friendly the ferrets are. I've only done adoption day twice (and both times on Clarksville's BARK!) and it's wonderful to see how many pet owners adopted from shelters. I would say that the number one question they ask is, "would ferrets get along with my pets?"

We show the people that most of our ferrets are given up because the previous owners say they can't afford them, or they have no time for them, or they just don't want them anymore. In other words, we show them there is nothing wrong with the actual ferrets, only their situation with their previous owners.

While showing pet owners how fun ferrets can be, we also tell them the things they wouldn't hear at a pet store: how ferrets require high-quality food, regular vet check-ups, constant ferret-proofing, and occasional assistance on finding the litter boxes.

If this sounds like something you would like to be a part of, please contact Bonnie (at bonnierussell@all2ez.net) or me (at fili.telles@gmail.com).

Welcome to The Ferret Inn (blog)

2008-08-23T23:18:00.000-04:00

My name is Fili and I am a volunteer at The Ferret Inn. My goal for this blog is to:

inform people who want to know what we're about
connect volunteers with one another and different events

I want to provide my tens of tens of readers with relevant news articles, ferret-related issues, and to talk about what makes the shelter great: the volunteers (and the ferrets, of course!).

Currently, I'm planning on:

getting to know individual volunteers better, maybe through a short Q&A?
showcasing a ferret of the month
providing information on upcoming events
giving updates on the shelter
giving updates on the ferrets' health, adoptions, etc

If any one wants to contribute to this blog in any way, please let me know! You can give me ideas on what to post about, post an entry, and/or become a regular poster.

Jezebel says, "Welcome to The Ferret Inn blog," while adding, "the camera adds 10 ounces."