Ferrets/Expert Profile

Expertise

I have owned these little weasels for over 16 years. While I cannot diagnose a condition, I feel confident to have gained enough knowledge to answer most questions concerning general health, nutrition, training, safety, cage requirements, games, grooming, vaccination, behavior, nipping, adoption, care of ill and elderly, and common symptoms of diseases. I have personally witnessed adrenal tumors, malignant cancer and liver failure in my own pets, and have seem many other conditions at my job as a vet technician for six years. Now I am studying for my doctorate in veterinary medicine, but as previously mentioned, I cannot diagnose a condition. That can only be done by a licensed veterinarian. I will, however, do my very best to answer any questions to the best of my ability.

Experience in the area

I have been a ferret owner (or owned by the carpet sharks!) for the past 16 years, as well as a shelter volunteer (Ferret Association of CT) for many more. I am now a third-year veterinary student at Louisiana State University, and I hope to specialize in these little guys!! There are so few doctors that will treat ferrets. I have my bachelor's degree in bio-molecular science, and I am currently enrolled at the the LSU College of Veterinary Medicine for my DVM degree.

Organizations

Louisiana State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ferret Association of CT, Student Chapter of the American Society of Veterinary Medicine

Education/Credentials

Present: Louisiana State School of Veterinary Medicine: 2009-2013 (DVM Degree) Past: Farmington Valley Veterinary ER (ER tech): 2007-current Veterinary Specialists of CT (vet tech): 2006-2007 Central Connecticut State University: 2001-2006 (BS in Bio-medical)

What do you like about this subject?

These guys are great! I love their individual personalities and how they can always get a giggle from me even on the worst of days with the crazy weasel dance. I will do my best to help answer any questions, and hopefully my experience as an owner and veterinary technician and student will prove useful!

What do you still hope to achieve/learn in this field?

My greatest wish in life is to become a board certified veterinarian that specializes in exotics including the weasel type. I have gained a lot of knowledge working in the field and owning these little demons, but there is still so much research in progress and much to learn.

Something interesting about this subject that others may not know:

Proper nutrition!!! I cannot stress enough how many poor quality foods there are (even ferret sorts). A poor diet can lead to health issues and especially insulinoma. The first three ingredients must be meat-based (preferably not fish origin) and preferably no by-products and avoid any vegetable origin. Look for high protein (at least 40%) and high fat content (approximately 20%).

Something controversial or provocative about this subject

Most people do not realize the poor quality of the food they are feeding. Manufacturers are not formulating proper diets, even in "ferret specific" brands. This can lead to serious health complications. As far as treats, most of the commercially available ones are VERY bad for ferrets, and raisins can be lethal. I feed my guys dried chicken bits that is 100% meat (no additives), and they love it!