From:
Steve and Becky McMall
Date: 2001-12-14 20:33:00 UTC
Subject: Are annual vaccinations still necessary?
We have nine ferrets, ranging in age from 2 years to over 6
years. Of these nine, we
had 8 vaccinated with both distemper and rabies (only rabies
for one who had
reacted the year before). Three ferrets of the 8 who
received the distemper
reacted, violently...........all three had never had a
reaction before, and we had pre-medicated
with benedryl.
We have personally decided never again. It was extremely
stressful on the ferrets (all 3 lost
at least 8 ounces after the reaction) and on *us* for the
hours we were there with the
vet while they were throwing up and pooping blood. The vet,
who was not extremely
ferret knowledgable and the vet we use for surgeries, who sees
at least 15 ferrets every
day, both agreed that if the ferrets do not go outside and are
not exposed to other animals
who may have contracted distemper that it may be better not to
take the chance on future
reactions.
Even if a ferret (or dog or cat) has never had a reaction to a
vaccination, it can and does
happen. Considering Linda's ferrets are over 6 years old, she
needs to weigh the odds
carefully, talk to a ferret knowledgabele vet, then make the
decision.