Ferrets

Knitting_Guy · 04-20-2008, 03:45 PM

I've been giving some thought to getting a new companion animal to travel with me in the truck. I don't want a dog as I don't always have time to stop to walk one, which wouldn't be fair to the dog.

I've been considering a ferret but other than what I have been reading about them don't know a lot about them. I'm also not sure about the best place to buy one.

They sound like they would make a fun pet to have around, and can be litter box trained which would be perfect for traveling in the truck.

I am a little concerned about how they might be with regard to my yarns and knitting.

Anyone have any input?

I'm also considering a rat.

Eccie · 04-20-2008, 09:09 PM

I had a ferret, she died a few years ago, but we're planning on getting more when we move. Ferrets like to grab things and run off and hide them so I'm sure you might loose a needle or two if you're not careful. Ferrets can be leash trained and litter box trained without a problem. The only concern I'd have with having one on the truck is it's sneaky little butt slipping away from you and getting lost. There is a ferret group at Ravelry, you might wanna check them out.

Knitting_Guy · 04-20-2008, 09:17 PM

Originally Posted by Eccie

I had a ferret, she died a few years ago, but we're planning on getting more when we move. Ferrets like to grab things and run off and hide them so I'm sure you might loose a needle or two if you're not careful. Ferrets can be leash trained and litter box trained without a problem. The only concern I'd have with having one on the truck is it's sneaky little butt slipping away from you and getting lost. There is a ferret group at Ravelry, you might wanna check them out.

Thanks. If I do decide to get one I'd be sure to put it in it's carrier before opening the truck door.

JessicaR · 04-20-2008, 09:24 PM

I think they smell

But I'm also overly sensitive to smells fyi. I did have a few rats when I was a teen. I liked them and they were clean and fun. Very interactive and tame. That's the way I would go personally.

Jan in CA · 04-20-2008, 09:28 PM

I've heard that they smell, too. I know all rodents can be smelly if the cage isn't cleaned often which might be a problem. You could do a cat if you did the cage thing before opening the door, too.

knitgal · 04-20-2008, 09:37 PM

Ferrets have always given me the creeps BUT I did have two pet rats when I was younger, Alice and Victoria. They were very sweet rats and I loved them a lot. They were actually very smart and loved to be held.
Have you considered a cat? If you could have a dog, you could surely have a cat.

Silver · 04-20-2008, 10:30 PM

FYI, you can train a small dog to use a litter box just like a cat, or ferret for that matter. Chihuahuas are known for traveling well and while they will happily walk when you take them out, they're also just as content to curl up under a blanket instead. Contrary to popular belief, Chis are not wirey high-strung dogs. They're small, laid-back and very loyal. I could definitely see one being your travel mate.

Just a suggestion, but I might be a little biased here.

dustinac · 04-20-2008, 10:42 PM

My brother used to have a ferret...they are so comical...but like others have said they like to hide things and they like to hide themselves...very tricky little guys and can create a mess...his loved to tear up paper...or the chips that was in his pen he would throw them out... He would sleep most of the day but when Ray would get home from school he would let him out...I always thought it smelled awful too

Knitting_Guy · 04-20-2008, 10:48 PM

Thanks everyone. After doing more reading on the subject I am reconsidering the ferret idea as they seem to be prone to some medical conditions that are quite costly to treat.

I am still considering a couple of rats, but other ideas as well. I wasn't aware that a small dog could be trained to use a litter box. I'll look into that idea.

gatorjade · 04-20-2008, 11:23 PM

I've had both ferrets and rats, and between the two I'd suggest a rat. I trained my rats to climb up my arms and perch on my shoulders, as they are very keen and sociable. Ferrets love to explore and have "puppy-like" personalities, so since you're on the road a lot, I think having a rat would be more rewarding for you. Hope this helps! Let us know what you decide!

P.S. - If you decide on a rat, I'd suggest a Dumbo. They have wonderful temperaments!