HELOISE Manual for ferret owners available online

Dear Heloise:I was really happy to see ferrets as a topic. You stated that ferrets are nocturnal, but actually they are crepuscular -- active at dawn and at dusk. They do adapt readily to the household clock, however.
My wife and I owned and operated a ferret shelter for more than 10 years here in New Hampshire. During that time, we answered hundreds of questions. I wrote The Ferret Owner's Manual for our adopters and anyone who had an interest in ferrets. It's available on the Internet, for anyone who wishes to learn about ferrets and ferret care, at www.4lilpaws.org. Your readers are welcome to download it. Dick Bossart, via e-mail
We got lots of comments from readers about ferrets. Here is what some of them had to say:
U"My family started with Pudge about two years ago and recently brought in Martin and Monty. They are all the same size and get along. It is such a riot to watch them play, and there is never a dull moment. To anyone interested in buying a ferret, I would recommend reading a 'how to' book on them. That was very helpful to us. One last tip: A collar with a bell is a must, and ferrets don't mind it at all." Todd Gillette, via e-mail
U"Much like children, it doesn't matter how expensive a toy you buy -- ferrets would rather play in the box it came in!" Kie Spring and Zander, via e-mail
U"I've had ferrets for 10 years. Ferret-proof your home, since most have gaps under the cabinets." Rob Dejournett, via e-mail
U"My family now has our third ferret as a pet. Our ferret likes to play tag with our cat. They hide under furniture, including rocking chairs. All my crochet work and yarn needs to be put up and in a closed plastic or canvas container. We wake him to play during the day, and at night frequently leave on a light or the TV in the living room." Terri Fakler, Winona, Minn.
U"When my ferret is ready to nap, he goes into my guest bedroom, pulls himself up onto the bed and crawls under the comforter. We keep him up to date on his shots at the vet, and my son keeps Gizmo's nails trimmed." Mary of Sherwood, Ark.
U"Please caution readers about the responsibility of owning a ferret. They are a member of the skunk family, and even de-scented, they still have a strong odor." Andrea Peterson, via e-mail
Dear Readers: Anna Classen of Little Egg Harbor, N.J., sent in a photo of her daughter Ciara and Slinky the white ferret at the beach. Slinky is on a surfboard and is looking up at Ciara with love in his eyes.
Anna said that Slinky is very loving and follows them everywhere. She also said he had fun digging in the sand and swimming on their day at the beach. Go to www.Hel-oise.com and click on "This Week's Pet" to see this photo. Heloise
King Features Syndicate