Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 9th June 2022
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Scottish SPCA appeals to public after ferret influx
The charity has far more ferrets seeking homes after an unexplained increase in those needing care.
The charity hopes to give the overlooked creatures a second chance. 

The Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Scottish SPCA) is appealing to the public to not overlook ferrets for adoption as the charity experiences an influx of the pets arriving at its shelters.

Over 60 ferrets are currently being cared for by the Scottish SPCA, with all nine of they charities rescue and rehoming centres caring for a larger amount of ferrets than usual.

Graeme Innes, Scottish SPCA deputy head of field operations, commented on the recent influx of ferrets: “Sadly, these animals are consistently overlooked for rehoming and tend to stay in our care for a long time. It’s a shame as they can make fantastic pets in the right homes.

“We’re not sure what’s driving the increase in ferrets coming in to our care. It could be that people didn’t want them any more when the reality of owning one of these animals set in!

“Although they are great for adult homes, or homes with older teenagers, they’re not really suitable as children’s pets as they can nip. 

“They also need a lot of enrichment and exercise as they’re highly social, intelligent creatures who love interacting with their owners. They shouldn’t just be left in a cage and forgotten about.”

Graeme encouraged the public to consider owning ferrets, highlighting their clever and sassy personalities: “However, if you’re willing to put the time and effort in to caring for them they can be incredibly rewarding animals to own. 

“They’re very inquisitive and cheeky and will definitely bring a lot of fun in to their new owners’ lives!”

Anyone interested in rehoming any of the ferrets being cared for by the Scottish SPCA can find out further information, view and apply for rehoming on the charity's website here.

“If anyone is looking for a friend for their existing ferrets, we’d love to hear from you as we have so many in our care that we’re sure we can find the perfect match,” Graeme added.

“If anyone is also thinking about becoming a first-time ferret owner then please consider adopting an animal and giving them a second chance. 

“Our centre receptions are open 1pm until 4pm daily and you can give our teams a call or pop in with any questions you might have about adopting one of these animals.

“We’d love to see these overlooked animals start to generate some interest and get the loving forever homes they deserve.”

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.