From:
daneedv@aol.com
Date: 2001-07-03 15:53:00 UTC
Subject: Reply to Regina - Not testing for ADV
>>I have not tested her for ADV, because I think that she is
>>as low risk as
a ferret can be for it. She and I don't >>contact other
ferrets, so I don't
think we present a risk >>for spreading it in the unlikely
event she did have
it.
Hi Regina and all,
While I would agree that you are probably at low risk for
spreading ADV if
your ferret should have it, you should still probably test.
Yes, she is
older, and if she did have it, probably nothing would change
for now. But,
since you have stated that when she is gone you will probably
get another
ferret, you should know whether or not things in your house
have been exposed.
Also, something most people do not consider, is the
possibility of exposure
in the vets office. Most people that have ferrets take them
to vets that
treat other ferrets. And while the vet most likely takes
precautions to
sanitize the examination table and his instruments, how many
times do you see
ferrets out loose in the waiting rooms, and that area does not
get sanitized.
Also, if it can be spread on clothing (and I am not convinced
it is that
easily spread), how many vets change their cloths, or even
their smocks,
between clients.
I do not worry about the ferrets that have been tested and are
known to be
positive, because we know to take extra precautions with them.
Most of the
owners of positive ferrets go out of their way to avoid
exposing other
ferrets. I worry about the ferrets that haven't been tested.
Those are the
ferrets that may look healthy, but may still be spreading ADV.
At this time we don't really know how easily ADV is spread, so
it is best to
assume the worst. It is better to be safe then sorry.
Danee