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Have Weasels, Will Travel

© Pam McInnis

The holiday season is over, and folks are dreaming of warmer days and the summer vacations that go with them.

For ferret owners, travel is always a mixed blessing. Vacations and business trips can be a blast, but finding qualified care for your ferret or making arrangements for him to come along for the ride is a trip in and of itself.

Finding A Ferret Sitter

I faced a unique challenge when I first brought ferrets into my life. I've always had critters in my home, and never had a problem finding top-notch care for my dog or cat when I traveled for business or pleasure. Camping trips are a favorite pastime of my husband and I, and we also never had a problem having our pooch jump in the back of the car and head to the hills with us.

But although ferrets are the third most popular pet in the United States, finding someone who has the know-how and desire to care for them when you travel is a bit more difficult. There just aren't as many folks out there with experience caring for weasely types. However, with some advance planning, you can find a qualified care provider to keep your fuzzmonsters happy and healthy while you are away.

One option is to have a care provider come into your home. A professional petsitting service or trusted friend or family member can visit daily, or you can have someone actually stay in your home while you are away.

1. Have your caretaker spend time getting to know your ferrets before you leave. Is he or she comfortable handling them? Are they comfortable with the caretaker?

2. When using a professional service, check references. Try to get references from other ferret owners or a veterinarian who regularly treats ferrets. Ask the service provider about specific experiences with ferrets.

3. Check and double-check that your house is as ferret-proofed as possible before leaving.

4. Remember that in addition to food, water and a clean cage, ferrets need daily play time in order to be happy. Make sure your caretaker will devote at least two hours daily to letting your ferrets get some exploration and exercise time.

5. Leave contact information for yourself and your veterinarian with your care provider.

6. Inform neighbors that you'll be having a pet sitter come to your home so that they aren't startled by someone they don't know entering your home. If possible, introduce your pet sitter to them.

The copyright of the article Have Weasels, Will Travel in Ferrets is owned by Pamela Hawley McInnis. Permission to republish Have Weasels, Will Travel in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.