QUESTION:
What is your opinion on distemper shots on ferrets, i have heard they should have them every year, then i have heard they don't need them every year because of the dangers. My ferret doesn't go outside, my dog is up to date on her shots, so I dont know if she can carry distemper in, but she is never near any dead animals, or other animals.

ANSWER:
With your dog going in and out there is always the danger of her bringing in distemper IF she is in contact with an animal carrying the disease. Just going to the vet's office if an animal has been in with distemper, the virus is airborne for 8 hours so there is a possibility of picking up the virus. It would not be right for me to advise you not to give the shots, but for you to make an informed decision on your own, weighing up the risks involved and your own circumstances.

QUESTION:
I have 2 jill ferrets and they are 6 -7months old. I would like to know if it is really necessary to get them injected against canine distemper. Also do you now how common it is? And a rough idea of how much it costs to injected them.

ANSWER:
Distemper is a very contagious disease, you could bring it home with you if you are around any animals with it, or if any strays pass your way. Cost should really not be a question when it comes to health care for your pets.

QUESTION:
They told us at the pet store that our Ferret was about 8 or 9 weeks old and had all her shots. I have read on the Internet that she might need her shots again. Could you tell me if we need to take her in and get her shots or when we need to again.

ANSWER:
If your ferret has a tattoo in the right ear, looks like 2 black dots, then she came from Marshall farms. She was given only one 'distemper' shot before she left the farm and will require at least 2 more, 2-3 weeks apart. She will not be protected against DISTEMPER until she receives the series of shots. I can assure you that she has only had one shot, because she was too young to have had more!

She will also need a RABIES vaccination at the age of 4 months and this is a necessary shot incase she should bite someone, she could be taken away from you and put in quarantine, depending on the law in your area, this has happened many times.

My advise would be to find a 'ferret knowledgeable vet' in your area, if you need the name of one, let us know. Also you might want to find a FERRET RESCUE/SHELTER close to you that may be able to help you learn more about taking care of your ferret.