March 24, 2002 - April 12, 2002 - May 21, 2002 - May 27, 2002 - June 11, 2002 - June 19, 2002
| From: Mary Shefferman Date: Tue Jul 17, 2001 11:01 pm Subject: News! |
| Greetings Modern
Ferret fans and welcome to our first news brief! Thank
you for subscribing! We've got a lot of
stuff going on right now (check out http://www.modernferretblog.com/mary/
for the latest updates on our lives) so this is
right to the point:
1. We have some really nifty 16x20 framed prints being auctioned off on eBay - we don't make a lot of these and the auction ends Thursday so if you're interested, check them out now: http://www.modernferret.com/ebay/ 2. We've made our first Halloween design (plan ahead!) for our FerretDesigns.com site and it's on sale now with all items $4.00 off - from now until August 1. So if you want to wear a classy ferret T-Shirt this Halloween or carry your goodies in an "Official Treat Carrier" then you should place your order now! http://www.ferretdesigns.com/turnedmeintoa/ That's about it for this first newsletter. We should have some more news soon. We're both hard at work finishing up both the litter training book and the next issue of Modern Ferret. Stay tuned! Mary & Eric & The Ferrets Copyright 2001 Modern Ferret Magazine. All rights reserved. |
| From: Mary Shefferman Date: Sun Aug 5, 2001 11:57 pm Subject: New York Post Article |
| Hello All!
We hope this note finds you and your ferrets well and happy. Here's the scoop: The NY Post ran an article today (Sunday) on page 50 titled: "A ferret-able love affair - why these kitten-like critters are the new pet of choice" along with a large picture of the front cover of _Modern Ferret_ issue #31 (which is currently printing). The article features lots of pro-ferret commentary from author Tama Janowitz (who wrote a article for issue #31) as well as a suggestion that potential owners adopt rather than buy from a pet store. It even gives contact info for a ferret rescue in Yonkers. You can read the text of the article at: http://www.nypost.com/pets/36651.htm and see the cover of _Modern Ferret_ #31 (featuring Tama Janowitz - with photography by fashion designer Todd Oldham) at: http://www.modernferret.com/gallery/ This issue will also feature an excellent piece on the history of ferrets in New York City by Bob Church. --Mary & Eric & the Ferrets (Trixie, Balthazar, Cauliflower, Koosh, and Gabby) Copyright 2001 Modern Ferret Magazine. All rights reserved. |
| From: Mary Shefferman Date: Sat Aug 18, 2001 6:17 pm Subject: Modern Ferret News 18 August 2001 |
| Hello Ferret
Friends,
Here's the latest from Mary & Eric from Modern Ferret magazine ... Hairball Reminder As we start coming to the end of summer <gasp!>, our furry friends are going to start shedding their summer coats. Make sure you give your ferrets hairball remedy to make sure they don't end up with a hairball. Even if only one of your ferrets is shedding, they should all get hairball remedy because they groom each other. Give your shedding ferrets a good brushing, too. This will help remove the loose fur from their coats. You can get FerretLax hairball remedy at the Ferret Trading Post (http://www.ferrettradingpost.com). Good News Issue #31 should be going to press early this coming week. That means it will likely mail next week, too. We'll keep you updated. Issue #32 We should be gearing up for production on Issue #32 sometime in the next few weeks. So far we've got some great stuff from Bob Church lined up. You won't want to miss it. More Good News The cover photo from Issue #23 (a ferret playing guitar with Barbie and Gumby) shot by Eric appears in this week's Time Out New York magazine. I also have a few quotes in there. It's a positive ferret piece about the NYC ban and the efforts to legalize our little guys. As soon as it's up on the web, we'll let you know so you can go read it. Web Design Eric is working on a re-design of our Ferret Trading Post site. We're going all out for this and are looking to include some video. Shameless Self-Promotion If you haven't gotten a copy of The Wit and Wisdom of the Modern Ferrets, go check it out at http://www.modernferretstore.com. You can even get your copy signed. It's only $12.95 with free shipping in the United States. Contact Mary You can always e-mail me at INVALID LINK REMOVED Sometimes I respond faster than other times, but I usually get around to it. You can also keep up with Modern Ferret things by checking http://www.modernferretblog.com -- that's where our online journals are (though Eric hasn't written much!). That's about all for now. Here's hoping you and your ferrets are staying happy and healthy! --Mary & Eric and Trixie, Balthazar, Cauliflower, Koosh, & Gabby Copyright 2001 Modern Ferret Magazine. All rights reserved. |
| From: Mary Shefferman Date: Tue Sep 4, 2001 10:33 pm Subject: New News |
| Hello Modern
Ferret Friends!
We hope you had a wonderful Labor Day weekend. We actually took a day to go out to my brother Mike's beach house. Issue #31 Mailing Issue #31 finally mailed on Saturday. We had gotten the mail house all the information long ago, but they weren't able to schedule the mailing right away. We're hoping the post office moves the magazines through quickly! New Product We have a new Back Issue savings package we think you'll like. It's called the Take 25 Pack and it includes 25 Modern Ferret Back Issues. You can order it on-line at the Ferret Trading Post or at the Modern Ferret Store site. It's $60 + $7.95 for shipping. Just in time for holiday gifts for the ferret lovers on your list. Go here: http://www.ferrettradingpost.com/take25pack.html Vaccinations We took Trixie, Balthazar, and Gabrielle to the vet for vaccinations last Thursday. Trixie and Gabby were due for their distemper shots. Trixie's went off without a hitch (with a little precautionary pre-treatment). She's never had any problems with any vaccines (thank goodness!). We decided that Gabby should wait until the new distemper vaccine from Merial is available. She had a not-so-terrible reaction last year, and we just didn't want to take any chances. We've been through that nightmare too often. Bal was up for his rabies shot -- and he also had no problems. So now we've just got to get through a rabies shot for Koosh and distemper and rabies shots for Cauliflower. Neither of those boys has had any problems with vaccines, so we're expecting everything to go smoothly. New Toy We got the ferrets a new toy -- a laundry basket! It's filled with the towels we use to dry them off with after a bath. They love it! What makes it even more special is the bottom half of a big 100-count #10 envelope box set on top of the towels. It's their own little tunneling, hiding paradise. Cheap and easy! Publicity We've heard from the London Telegraph Magazine -- they're going to re-print Tama Janowitz's article from our Issue #31. I know the folks in the UK who keep their ferrets for companionship and not for work will appreciate something in their press that paints a friendlier picture of ferrets. We should have some more news in a few more days -- so watch for it! Keep it ferrety, Mary & Eric & The Fuzzies (Trixie, Balthazar, Cauliflower, Koosh, and Gabrielle) Copyright 2001 Modern Ferret Magazine. All rights reserved. |
| From: Mary R Shefferman Date: Wed Sep 19, 2001 9:57 pm Subject: (none) |
| Dear Modern
Ferret Friends,
The events of last Tuesday have left all of us sad, confused, and angry. We are thankful that our friends and family who work and live in NYC are OK, and we pray for the families, friends, neighbors, and co-workers of the victims. We also pray for the rescue workers and for the men and women in our armed forces. Although Modern Ferret is about 50 miles away from New York City, on Long Island, several of our ferret friends have called or e-mailed to check on us. We are as well as expected. However, our community has been very directly affected by the attack on the World Trade Center, as many of our neighbors and people in our community work in New York City, including at the WTC. We appreciate the concern our readers and friends have expressed for us. We hope all of you and your friends and families are OK, too. Fund-Raiser T-Shirt To help support the relief efforts, Modern Ferret, through our FerretDesigns.com web site, has donated a design to the American Red Cross. This program was set up by our fulfillment company, CafePress. All the proceeds from the sale of the donated design (including profits from CafePress.com) go to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. You can see the design we donated at: The design comes on a t-shirt, long-sleeve t-shirt, tank top, or tote bag. We hope that you'll take advantage of this fund-raiser for the American Red Cross. You can see all the designs (non-ferret-related) that were donated for this fund-raiser program at: INVALID LINK REMOVED What's Next? In the coming weeks and months Eric and I will continue to do our best to carry on our business, as we've been urged to do by President Bush. In the face of all sorts of uncertainty and challenges, we hope that Modern Ferret can help bring its readers some amount of comfort and cheer in focusing some attention on our beloved furry companions. Although nothing will make us forget the events of September 11, 2001 -- and, indeed, nothing should -- our survival and recovery depend in part on our willingness to reach out for some of the joyful things in our lives. For so many of us, our ferrets are one of those joyful things in our lives. One of the first in these efforts is my appeal for you all to take some time to enjoy your ferrets today. Often the simplicity of our furry friends can give us the strength to face our changing and complex world. Peace. Mary & Eric & The Modern Ferrets (Trixie, Balthazar, Cauliflower, Koosh, and Gabrielle) ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Copyright 2001 Modern Ferret Magazine. All rights reserved. |
| From: Mary R Shefferman Date: Sun Sep 23, 2001 5:28 pm Subject: 23 September |
| Greetings Ferret
Friends,
We hope you are all doing a little better and finding your way back to some sort of routine. In our effort to return to a routine, please consider the following ... BIG PAK: The Modern Ferret BIG PAK offer is coming to an end. The BIG PAK consists of Back Issues #1 (reprint), 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 (subscriber edition), 12 (newsstand edition), 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, and 19, Plus a bonus ferret mug ("Wanted: Bandit"). When the mugs are gone, so is the BIG PAK offer. So if you've been putting off getting a Modern Ferret BIG PAK, you should do it soon (hey, they make great holiday gifts for ferret owners!). We've also introduced the new Modern Ferret TAKE 25 Pack. This special back issue package includes 25 of the available back issues at one special low price. As we run out of the earlier back issues, we'll substitute later back issues. Right now the TAKE 25 Pack includes the following Modern Ferret back issues: #1 (reprint), 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, and 30. Surf on over to http://www.modernferretstore.com and take a look at these special offers... and get your BIG PAK with Bonus Mug before they're all gone! UPDATE: Eric is re-working our Ferret Trading Post site (http://www.ferrettradingpost.com) to make it a little easier to navigate -- and more attractive! Watch for the changes sometime in the next week or so. More updates soon. Thanks for reading. Take care & hug those furballs! Mary & Eric & Trixie, Balthazar, Cauliflower, Koosh, and Gabby ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Copyright 2001 Modern Ferret Magazine. All rights reserved. |
| From: Mary R Shefferman Date: Tue Oct 16, 2001 1:25 am Subject: Cold Weather; What's New |
| Hello Ferret
Friends,
We've got some new T-shirt designs at FerretDesigns.com. But first, a word about the weather ... Humidifiers The other night it got so cold here that we had to turn on the heat. The next morning Eric and I woke up with sore, dry throats and dry skin. We forget how uncomfortable dry air can be, after a hazy, hot and humid summer. After a second night of cold temperatures and having to put up the heat, we realized it was time to set up the humidifiers in our bedroom and in the living room, where the ferrets are. Even though the ferrets don't seem to be acting any differently, I'm sure the dry air makes them uncomfortable, too. So remember that if you have put on the heat, you'll want to also set up humidifiers in your home -- for your comfort and the comfort of your ferrets. To get the best health results, make sure you follow the humidifier manufacturer's directions for operating and cleaning your humidifier. And, of course, keep your humidifier out of reach of your ferrets. NEW DESIGNS at FerretDesigns.com! Come look at the latest T-shirt/mug/mousepad designs! We've got the long-anticipated "World's Greatest Ferret Dad" and "Ask Me About My Grandferrets." Great gifts, but even better when you get them for yourself! Surf by the Ferret Designs web site and take a look! Eric and I and the ferrets hope you and yours are doing well! Talk to you soon, Mary & the Fuzzies ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Copyright 2001 Modern Ferret Magazine. All rights reserved. |
| From: Mary R Shefferman Date: Tue Oct 23, 2001 7:38 pm Subject: Shedding & More New T-Shirt Designs! |
| Hello Ferret
Fans!
We're busy making new T-shirt designs for our www.ferretdesigns.com web site. Our ferrets are busy making piles of fur on the carpet... ========= The other day I picked up Gabby and she felt a little cushier; her fur felt a little more like a winter coat than it had in the previous days. Sure enough, the next night Eric was petting Balthazar and a cloud of fur billowed off of him. We broke out the hairball remedy and loaded up everyone with a dose of it. Eric brushed Bal and pulled off a small ferret's worth of loose fur. Now Koosh is dropping a few hairs, too. The following night, Balthazar and Koosh got baths to help remove even more of their loose fur. It's always important to keep an eye on whether and when your ferrets shed. Because they all groom one another, if one is shedding all should get hairball remedy (laxative). Any ferret with loose fur should get a good brushing like Bal got; a bath is also a good way to remove loose fur. Here's something we've discovered -- most ferrets aren't too keen on getting brushed. News flash, right? We started using a thing called a Zoom Groom by Kong a couple of years ago and noticed that the ferrets seem to tolerate it better than a conventional brush. And ferrets really hate those wire slicker brushes, at least all our ferrets hate them. I don't know if they scratch or tickle, but, whatever it is, the ferrets run from it like they run from baths. So watch your ferrets for loose fur. It's that time. =================== Eric's been working on a new layout that's easier to navigate for our Ferret Designs web site. He's also been putting together new designs. You can go to http://www.ferretdesigns.com to look at all the designs, or check out these new ones! The long-awaited "World's Greatest Ferret
Dad" -- "Ask Me About My Grandferrets" (in
blue or red lettering) -- Patriotic! "Don't Tread On Me" -- The Holidays are coming! "Santa's Sleigh
Pulled By Ferrets" -- "Treat Fiend" -- "Nap Time" -- "Somebody's Been Pooping In My
Corner" -- Go check 'em out! Most of these designs are available as T-shirts, mousepads, mugs, or totebags. Don't forget to check for any designs you might have missed! Thanks for reading! Mary & the Fuzzies ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Copyright 2001 Modern Ferret Magazine. All rights reserved. |
| From: Mary R Shefferman Date: Mon Oct 29, 2001 11:34 pm Subject: Halloween Safety - NEW Security Cube - Save $5 |
| Hi Ferret
Friends,
We know how damaging stress can be to us. We also know that reducing stress can help keep us healthier. The same is true for our ferrets. But how do we reduce our ferrets' stress? To help you make stress reduction easy, we've created an exciting new item -- the Ferret Planet Security Cube. You can read about the Security Cube below. And you can save $5 if you act soon! But first ... ======== Halloween can be a lot of fun for kids (and for adults). But it can also pose a danger to ferrets. Here are four tips for keeping your ferrets safe while you're enjoying the day.
Any holiday can present special dangers to our ferrets. If we take extra care to keep our homes ferret-proofed, we should all enjoy the day. ========================== The Security Cube from FerretPlanet is a breakthrough product for your ferrets. Designed by Eric and me to help you provide a dark, secure retreat for your ferrets, the Security Cube attaches to your ferret cage just as easily as a hammock. We all know how damaging stress can be to our ferrets' health. The Ferret Planet Security Cube is a simple way to provide your ferrets with a place to sleep or to hide when they feel stressed by noise, light, or other concerns. The unique overlapping flap design keeps the inside of the cube dark, while still allowing you to reach in and remove your ferret if necessary. It comes in four fun colors: Red, Purple, Royal Blue, or Hunter Green. To read more about the Security Cube, go to this link: INVALID LINK REMOVED Buy your Security Cube today at: INVALID LINK REMOVED ========================== Purchase a Ferret Planet Security Cube at the Ferret Trading Post between now and November 4, 2001, and get $5.00 off with this coupon code! FERRETNEWS1 Hurry! Don't miss the savings! ============= Eric and I hope you and your ferrets have a happy and safe Halloween. Until next time... so long! --Mary & the Fuzzies ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Copyright 2001 Modern Ferret Magazine. All rights reserved. |
| From: "Mary R. Shefferman" Date: Thu Nov 8, 2001 12:31 am Subject: Free Shipping @ Ferret Designs! - Flu Season - Ferret Books! |
| Hello again
Ferret Fans!
Thanks for staying with us as our little e-newsletter begins to take some actual shape. We've been trying to include some important information as well as product and special announcements in every e- mail. This one is no exception! IN THIS e-NEWSLETTER:
================================== From now until November 18, order $50.00 or more worth of merchandise at FerretDesigns.com and get FREE SHIPPING! This is the perfect opportunity to start your Holiday Shopping. Choose from all sorts of ferrety designs and items for the ferret lovers on your Holiday list! (And why not get a little something for yourself, too?) Choose from T-shirts, long-sleeve T-shirts, totebags, mousepads, and mugs. All sorts of fun designs including: #1 Ferret Mom -- World's Greatest Ferret Dad -- Love Me, Love My Ferret (This design also comes
as Boxer Shorts!) -- Ask Me About My Grandferrets (red or blue) -- http://www.ferretdesigns.com/askmeabout-blue/index.html Patriotic Designs: > I Stand For Freedom -- Silly Designs: > Santa's sleigh being pulled by ferrets And More! Check back often for new designs! More Holiday designs are coming soon! ==================================== Books about ferret care and ferrets make great gifts for any ferret lover! Now you can purchase the best ferret books available at INVALID LINK REMOVED. Finish out your library. Get a gift for a friend or your veterinarian. Choose from a selection of top-notch ferret books! INVALID LINK REMOVED =========== I just got my flu shot yesterday, and while I'm sitting here thinking about how sore my arm is, I'm reminded that we're coming upon flu season. Flu season starts around December and continues through March. As much as it is important for us humans to be aware of the flu, it's also important for our ferrets. That's right -- your ferrets can get your flu. It can be difficult to impossible to tell the difference between a cold and the flu -- but your ferrets' bodies know the difference. Ferrets cannot get your cold, but they can get your flu. Since it can be very difficult to know whether you've got the flu or just a bad cold, it's best to try to avoid your ferrets as much as possible whenever you're sick. If you do have to do routine tasks when you're sick, wash your hands before and after handling the ferrets' items. Avoid sneezing, coughing, or breathing on your ferrets or their things as much as possible. It's best if you can get someone else to take care of ferret chores while you are sick. Hard as it is to resist a ferret who wants to play, it's best to leave them to their own games when you're sick. If your ferret does catch your flu, you'll need to provide supportive care. The flu is caused by a virus, so antibiotics won't help. Do NOT give your ferret over-the-counter cold or flu remedies -- many contain ingredients that can harm your ferret. Instead, provide warmth and plenty of fluids. Offer Pedialyte (electrolyte replacer) and an easily digested food (chicken or turkey baby food), especially if the ferret is eating less than usual. Keep an eye on any sick ferret. If he or she stops eating or has labored breathing, see your veterinarian. The flu can lead to pneumonia (in both humans and ferrets). If you think your ferret is coming down with pneumonia, he or she needs to see the vet right away. People and ferrets who are otherwise in good health should be able to fight off the flu virus with rest and supportive care. Lots of TLC, rest, warmth, and fluids should help get you and your little friend through the flu. But don't hesitate to take your ferret to the vet is he or she isn't doing well. Is It a Cold or The Flu? You may not be able to tell for certain which you have based on symptoms alone. However, for the most part, fever occurs commonly with the flu, but rarely with a cold. Also, the flu usually has a quicker onset than a cold. If you're sick and you think you have the flu, see your doctor. Your doctor can perform a quick test that will tell for certain if you have the flu. If you don't feel sick enough to see your doctor, but you think it might be the flu, it is best to simply avoid your ferrets to be on the safe side. You can learn more about the flu at www.Intelihealth.com, which I've found to be a pretty reliable source for consumer medical information. Or talk to your doctor. ======== If you have a friend who you think would like to be receiving the Modern Ferret News e-Newsletter, pass it on! If you're reading a friend's copy, why not sign up for yourself? It's FREE! Send an e-mail to: [See the subscribe form at: www.modernferrets.com]. Stay healthy! --Mary & the Fuzzies ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Copyright 2001 Modern Ferret Magazine. All rights reserved. |
| From: Mary R Shefferman Date: Wed Nov 14, 2001 7:48 pm Subject: Ferrets on TV & Holiday Reminders |
| Hello Ferret
Friends!
FERRETS ON TV This weekend on the FOX television network (not Fox Family Channel, not FX, but the regular FOX affiliate), The Pet Shop with Marc Morrone will feature an entire show on ferrets. Marc's guest is Tiffany Taylor (who was featured in Modern Ferret Magazine issue #22). There will be also be a very cute little angora ferret - Tiffany's "Ferris." Tiffany does a very good job talking about ferrets and ferret care so be sure to tune in (or tape it). Depending on where you are, the show usually airs early on Saturday or Sunday morning. You can find the show in your local listings by looking for The Pet Shop. This web site: http://www.tvguide.com can be really useful -- just go there and use the search button (upper right corner) and look for "The Pet Shop" -- it'll give you your local listing and channel. DON'T FORGET! FerretDesigns.com has FREE SHIPPING for orders over $50.00 if you place your order by November 18th. Time is running out! Go to: http://www.ferretdesigns.com >Security Cube! Did you get your Security Cube by Ferret Planet yet? If you haven't taken a look at the information on the Security Cube, go read through it now. It makes a great gift for your ferrets or for your local shelter. Get one today! INVALID LINK REMOVED --Mary & the Fuzzies ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Copyright 2001 Modern Ferret Magazine. All rights reserved. |
| From: Mary R Shefferman Date: Tue Nov 20, 2001 5:33 pm Subject: Ferret X-Mas Ornaments & More - FREE Gift Tags! |
| Happy
Thanksgiving Everyone!
Here's hoping your holiday is a good one! In This Issue:
ADORABLE CHRISTMAS FERRET DESIGN! It's time to start your Ferret Holiday Shopping! You can get gifts for everyone on your list -- or things to brighten up your home for the holidays -- at FerretDesigns.com. Go check out our NEW Christmas Design -- ornament, stocking, plush bear, T-shirt, stein & mug ... Hurry! This is a Limited Edition Design -- available only until Jan 1, 2002! http://www.ferretdesigns.com/holiday2001/index.html FREE FERRET GIFT TAGS Download Ferret Gift Tags -- FREE! Click the link below or look in the Free Stuff section of the Ferret Designs web site. (You'll need Adobe Acrobat to download these tags -- it's free, too!) Use these for all your Holiday gift-giving needs! Print them out on white and color them -- or print them on colored paper! http://www.ferretdesigns.com/free-stuff/index.html MODERN FERRET TAKE 25 PACK Over 1000 pages of ferret information, fun, tips, training! 25 Modern Ferret back issues all in one discounted package! Just $60 + $7.95 shipping. Take a look: http://modernferretstore.com/2/cat2.htm HOLIDAY SAFETY Remember that holidays can be dangerous for our ferrets, so keep your ferrets safe throughout the upcoming season.
If you use common sense and keep an eye on your ferrets, you should have a wonderful and safe Holiday Season. From us to you -- have a happy and safe Thanksgiving. Mary & Eric & the Fuzzies (Trixie, Balthazar, Cauliflower, Koosh & Gabby) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Copyright 2001 Modern Ferret Magazine. All rights reserved. |
NEWSLETTER #13
| From: Mary R Shefferman Date: Wed Nov 28, 2001 Subject: Hi - Traveling With Ferrets, Holiday Shopping, and more! |
|
Hello Again Here's the first newsletter from our new software. I hope it works OK!
In this Issue: FREE SHIPPING SPECIAL EXTENDED! ('Til Dec. 3 on orders of $50+) The special free shipping deal on all orders of $50.00 or more at www.FerretDesigns.com has been extended to DECEMBER 3rd! You can still get this great deal on all Ferret Designs merchandise. Choose from all sorts of ferrety designs -- even our new Christmas design: http://www.ferretdesigns.com/holiday2001/index.html HOLIDAY TRAVELING Usually traveling around the holidays means finding someone to take care of your ferrets while you're away. But with so many people forgoing flying and, instead, taking to the open road, many holiday travelers will have the chance to bring their ferrets with them for the holidays. That is, as long as the people you're visiting will welcome the little furballs. Here's a little checklist of the things you'll need to bring with you:
Most ferrets travel fairly well. Of all our ferrets (a total of 11 over the years), only one -- Gabby -- gets restless while we're driving. Then again, she's a very high energy ferret. If you're driving particularly far, you might want to bring a harness and lead so you can walk your ferrets at a rest stop along the way. You'll also want to check on them from time to time to make sure they haven't spilled their food or that their water bottle hasn't leaked. Once you've gotten everything together -- have a good time! A great gift for your ferrets! - The Security Cube! The Security Cube from INVALID LINK REMOVED is a breakthrough product for your ferrets. Designed by Eric and Mary (me!) to help you provide a dark, secure retreat for your ferrets, the Security Cube attaches to your ferret cage just as easily as a hammock. We all know how damaging stress can be to our ferrets' health. The Ferret Planet Security Cube is a simple way to provide your ferrets with a place to sleep or to hide when they feel stressed by noise, light, or other concerns. The unique overlapping flap design keeps the inside of the cube dark, while still allowing you to reach in and remove your ferret if necessary. It comes in four fun colors: Red, Purple, Royal Blue, or Hunter Green. To read more about the Security Cube, go to this link: INVALID LINK REMOVED Buy your Security Cube today at the Ferret Trading Post: INVALID LINK REMOVED Have fun doing your holiday shopping!
--Mary & Eric & the Fuzzies PS - If you found the advice in this newsletter helpful, you'll love a subscription to Modern Ferret magazine! For ordering information, go to: http://www.modernferret.com/order/index.html ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ >Unsubscribe info:
To unsubscribe from this newsletter, use the web-based form at: http://www.modernferrets.com Copyright 2001 Modern Ferret Magazine. All rights reserved. |
| From: Mary R Shefferman Date: Thur Dec 27, 2001 Subject: Hi ! - Ferrety things for 2002 and belated gifts |
|
Hello Again
Here's our second newsletter from our new
software. =============================== All of us here hope you had a very enjoyable
holiday =============================== At FerretDesigns.com - your place for ferret
shirts, You'll find T-shirts, mugs, mousepads, and more =============================== Did you get a new ferret this holiday season? To start 2002 off right, each of our
newsletters will =============================== For now, it's time for us to wind-down,
wrap-up, and --Mary & Eric & the Fuzzies Mary R. Shefferman, Editor etc. Modern Ferret Magazine www.ModernFerret.com -
www.ModernFerretStore.com -------------------------------------------- >>Unsubscribe info: >>Subscribe info: Archives of this newsletter are available at: http://modernferrets.com/newsletterarchive.html Copyright 2001 Modern Ferret magazine. All rights reserved.
|
| From: Mary R Shefferman Date: Sun Mar 24, 2002 Subject: Modern Ferret News #15 - Status Update |
Modern Ferret News Mailing List Issue #15 March 24, 2002 ====================================================== See the bottom of this newsletter for a special code for our newsletter subscribers to save $10 on the purchase of a Take 25 Pack. ====================================================== Note: Although this newsletter is meant to bring you ferret care tips and other ferret information, in this issue we'd like to let you know what has been going on with Modern Ferret magazine and with us (Mary and Eric -- the people who create Modern Ferret magazine). Please bear with us as we know that many of you are wondering what happened to us and to the magazine and we felt that the distribution of this newsletter would be the best way to tell as many people as possible what has been going on. Over the past six months, we've found that many of our fans literally love us to death. We know you want your Modern Ferret magazine and we know you want it NOW -- unfortunately, we've had tough times in the past and some very difficult problems in the present. We will now give you an overview of what has been going on here and what we will be doing in the coming weeks. ====================================================== In this issue: - What's Been Going On At Modern Ferret - Some words from Mary - Some words form Eric - What We're Doing Now & The Future of Modern Ferret - How *YOU* Can Help Us Subscribe/Unsubscribe instructions at the end of this message. ====================================================== "What's Been Going On At Modern Ferret?" Some words from Mary: On September 10, 2001, things were looking very good for Modern Ferret. We were working on or close to schedule; best-selling author Tama Janowitz was excited to plug the magazine everywhere she went; we had sent out piles of publicity letters to all sorts of venues, hyping fashion designer Todd Oldham's photos of Ms. Janowitz on our cover and centerfold. We had just created an excellent new product (the Security Cube) that ferrets love and that may actually help to reduce stress. We were feeling good. Hopeful. Then came September 11. It was a bad day all around. The events of September 11 made a mess of things for us in several ways: 1. 9-11 was emotionally upsetting and psychologically destabilizing (as it was for so many of us). 2. 9-11 changed the face of the economy, and, more specifically, the magazine industry. Big name magazines like Talk have folded in the wake of 9-11. This has changed the way every aspect of the magazine industry functions. Even little old Modern Ferret. Our printer called our credit line and refused to do any further work for us without being paid all back bills. Their reasoning: "The economy is bad." We had no contingency plan for such an event, and we were selling virtually nothing as a result of 9-11. We have had to regroup and come up with a new plan. 3. All the publicity we had planned -- and that Tama Janowitz had gladly agreed to do for us -- came to nothing. As a news reporter had pointed out a few days after 9-11, "there aren't going to be any soft interviews for a long time." Issue #31 came out a little later than scheduled (as a result of delays created by our printer) and, thus, landed out in the world only a very short time (days? a week or so?) before the terrorists attacked. This issue that we had so hoped would help us gain new subscribers (and revenue) was swamped by the terrible events of 9-11. 4. We had to delay sending out our renewal mailing, which would have been mailed on or about September 13. We waited two weeks, but still got a very poor response -- people were sending money to the victims of the WTC attacks. A lot of people had more important things on their minds than magazine subscriptions. 5. Both Eric and I were ill during the last few months. Although the problems predate 9-11, the terrorist attacks certainly made things worse. Eric had an abscess that resulted from his Crohn's disease. He spent 10 days in the hospital and had to have a drain in place for a couple of weeks to be sure to remove all the infection. He had spent a couple of months not realizing that he had an abscess, as the symptoms were attributed to the Crohn's disease. When he reached a point where medications were not helping and he was having terrible fevers, he was admitted to the hospital for tests. He is recovering well, but the infection took a powerful toll on his health and on his morale. He still has a lot of resting up to do before he's 100% again. I had been feeling a little low earlier this year (maybe it was my birthday in August). Despite the very promising future of Issue #31 and the excitement of having developed a friendship with Tama Janowitz, I didn't feel quite as good as I ought to have felt. After 9-11, I began a steep decline that was made worse by the situation with our printer as well as some tragedies suffered by friends and family (a friend's daughter died and my aunt and uncle were seriously injured in a house fire). In December I was diagnosed with major depression, after several months of being virtually unable to work. Since then, I have been taking medication, which is helping me to get back to my old self. What all this adds up to is that Issue #32 of Modern Ferret is very late. We had nearly finished Issue #32 when the world fell apart. Since then, We have located a new printer and will be going ahead with Issue #32 soon. We are also finally finishing up the Litter Box Training Manual. Basically, we are re-launching Modern Ferret. It is difficult, but we've done it before. Eric and I are totally committed to continuing with the magazine. As we've overcome obstacles in the past, so shall we continue to do so. There are some changes that may come about in the coming few months. I'm planning to get a job outside of Modern Ferret to give the magazine the opportunity to regain some financial health. This could mean that issues in the near future are a little late or that they are done completely by Eric by himself. We see these changes as necessary so that we can continue to publish Modern Ferret and bring you, our readers, the best, and most accurate ferret information available. ====================================================== "What's Been Going On At Modern Ferret?" Some words from Eric: Throughout the year 2000 I was so ill that I was unable to do any work on the magazine and we only put out one issue that year before I was hospitalized in August due to a prolonged and uncontrollable flare-up of my Crohn's disease. By the time I was hospitalized I had been through 2 months of physical therapy to try to make me able to walk again and I had been on several medications to try to control my Crohn's -- including one that had me vomiting constantly all day long for two weeks, and I had been living with constant high temperature fevers. I had been taking all kinds of pain killers like percocet for months with no reduction in the pain, but with a severe impairment of my ability to think. The magazine not coming out for most of the year understandably disturbed many of our subscribers. At the same time, our competition, Fancy Publications, took over all distribution into pet stores from the company that had been distributing us. This made it impossible for us to get copies of Modern Ferret into pet stores (where the ferret owners are). When I got out of the hospital and started working I knew we had a long uphill struggle ahead of us. All of the above problems contributed to us being physically, emotionally, and financially wiped out. Despite the difficulty of our situation, we resolved to work as hard as we could to rebuild the magazine so that we would have strong sales during the holiday season of 2001 and be able to make up for the financial disaster that was the year 2000. Throughout 2001 I started having more and more pain in my stomach area on the right side. It was thought to be Crohn's disease related, but no amount of prednisone seemed to alleviate the symptoms. My doctor wanted me to get a CAT scan so that he could see what was going on -- but our health insurance had been cancelled because we couldn't afford it and there was no way we could afford to pay for a CAT scan. As time went on, I started to no longer be able to lift my right leg due to the pain in my abdomen and I could no longer drive or even walk upstairs (where the computer that I do the magazine on is located). Despite the pain I was in, we managed to get the magazine production back on schedule and we managed to design one of the best ferret products ever - the Security Cube. Things were starting to look up, and we were very hopeful that with the December holiday sales, Modern Ferret would be back to being a magazine that could support us. We had just put out a very publicity-oriented issue of Modern Ferret (#31) featuring Tama Janowitz and with photography by Todd Oldham. Several magazines had expressed interest in writing about it and the NY Post had devoted a full page to it. We had hoped to capitalize on Tama Janowitz's reputation as a New York City oriented writer to point out that ferrets should be legalized in New York City. We even had an excellent article by Bob Church with photos of the importance of ferrets in the history of New York City. Tama Janowitz was going to hit all the major talk shows and point out both how wonderful ferrets are as well as their documented past as rat hunters in New York City that made the city a safer and healthier place to live. We had nearly finished issue #32 -- our long awaited holiday 2001 issue with which we hoped we would finally bring in enough money between magazine sales, book sales, T-shirt sales, and sales of our brand new Security Cube that we could get ourselves out of debt and get our lives back on track. We had great features already lined up for issues #33 and 34 -- the issues that should have come out in the beginning of 2002. Everything was starting to look up for us again. Then came September 11. Because of the high dose of prednisone I was on, I was hardly sleeping and was busy working on the computer when my mother instant messaged me that a plane had crashed into the World Trade Center. This sounded so unreal and unbelievable that I turned on the TV to confirm it for myself -- just in time to see a second plane crash into the other tower. Mary and I watched in fear as the world suddenly turned into a very scary place. It seemed that every minute there was some new frightening development such that we didn't know what to do but keep watching. There was no way to tell what bad thing would happen next -- and in the scheme of things, we don't live very far from New York City. The bridges to Long Island were all shut down in response to the threat of more terrorist attacks, and despite the fact that Long Island is a very big island -- it is still an island and we were now cut off from the rest of the world. Thus Mary and I found ourselves going out to do some emergency supply shopping -- picking up gallons of water (in case the water supply was poisoned), canned foods, etc. Returning home from one of the shopping trips we listened to a message from our printer that they wanted us to pay them in full right away. They seemed concerned that if we were killed in the next terrorist attack that there'd be no Modern Ferret left to pay them. That seemed pretty callous to me, considering that we had seen footage of people jumping from the roof of the World Trade Center, that we kept seeing ambulance convoys bringing wounded out to hospitals near us, and that for all we knew our lives still were in immediate danger. With all that going on right around us, the message from our printer seemed like their way of playing an evil, anti-American practical joke. Somewhere in the middle of all this, both Mary and I broke -- each in our own way. I had an immediate flare-up of my Crohn's disease (my body's natural reaction to stress). I rapidly got weaker and sicker. Despite the fact that we were nearly done with issue #32, neither of us had the spirit or energy to complete it. We had no humor left with which to complete the cutesy ferret jokes that seemed so irrelevant now that one man far away had demonstrated his need and ability to kill Americans on American soil while they were going about their ordinary lives. We tried a few times to complete the issue with some editorial replaced to make it less silly and more relevant -- but we just failed to finish it and we both became more and more depressed while I also got sicker and sicker. I started to have (on top of the pain) constant fevers. My doctor still urged me to get a CAT scan, but having not made any money in December that was now impossible. Eventually in February, I was such a total wreck that I had to go to the emergency room and I was admitted to Huntington Hospital. At the hospital they immediately did a CAT scan and determined that I had an abscess caused by the Crohn's disease. They attached a draining mechanism to me and removed *one liter* (think about the size of a soda bottle) of pus and yucky stuff from the abscess. I then spent another ten days in the hospital while they monitored me to make sure that they were getting the infection under control. I'm told that I'm lucky that I hadn't waited longer -- if the abscess had burst or spread I would have been in even worse condition. When I was released from the hospital, I still had the drainage tube attached to my back and I really still didn't feel well. I wound up keeping the drainage tube in for about a month. It is now the end of March and I'm still weak, still have difficulty climbing stairs, and have a big bruise all around where the drainage tube was attached to me. I must say that it still boggles my mind how close we were to recovering from all the problems caused by my illness in 2000. Now we are in the same situation all over again. There is just no way to plan for your body failing to function. We had done so many great things in 2001 and had so many more great things set up for the future. Now we will be starting up the magazine from nothing all over again. It seems that Modern Ferret has been a long series of apologies from us as we always attempt to do so much that it would be impossible to do it all. We haven't made any money doing it and yet we still keep pushing ourselves -- because it seems like the right thing to do. We kept taking on more and more projects in the hope that something would click and we would actually earn a living from producing a resource that people seem to enjoy. It does fascinate me from the calls, emails, faxes, etc. that we get how desperate Modern Ferret readers are to get their magazine. Many people literally "love us to death" calling constantly demanding that we send them their next issue -- well beyond our ability to deal with. If we were well enough to put out the issue and get it to people, I assure you we would. I don't know how we've achieved this kind of fanatical devotion without also building up a sufficient number of subscribers that we could pay our bills and earn a living. At this point, we're obviously going to have to back off a bit from anything overly ambitious. Not being able to afford medical care is not the way for someone with Crohn's disease to live. Though I believe in working very hard for Modern Ferret, I really don't want to die for it. Both Mary and I really believe in Modern Ferret and the importance of Modern Ferret for ferrets. We set out in 1994 to make some real changes, and though we haven't accomplished everything we wanted to, that is mostly because there are so many things we want to do and we keep adding to the list. We are both committed to keeping Modern Ferret going -- but it is going to be very different for a while. I'm not sure how we'll do this, but we need to achieve doing some things that involve taking care of ourselves: being healthy, earning money, living somewhere that we want to live, getting a house, having kids, etc. These are all things that we've set aside for too long in the name of trying to make the magazine better. But it is hard to see how my being hospitalized more than once because I continued working despite being in pain really makes the magazine any better or improves things for ferrets. Why haven't we just given up on Modern Ferret at this point? Because we know that what we're doing goes way beyond the ordinary pet magazine. When I see some of the bad information and advice that is published elsewhere, I know that what we do is worth doing -- that we do really help ferrets. Because when I look at our ferrets I know that they are the source of all the concern that we put into making Modern Ferret better -- we're not just another stack of paper with a staple put together by some company trying to make money selling ads and we're not some sloppy looking newsletter thrown together with a complete lack of editing. Because without us, no one was going to create anything special for ferrets. In the few years we have been publishing Modern Ferret we have seen two other much older, more established, and better financed magazines published by actual pet owners fail - Cats Magazine and Reptile & Amphibian. Cats magazine had been around for over 50 years and I think Reptile & Amphibian had been around for at least 15 years. With Fancy Publications being able to crush magazines like those two, it's amazing that we've gotten this far. I think it must just be our ferret-like stubbornness. So what do we do now? We don't really have any plan yet. Everything we had done in 2001 relied on having really strong sales during the holiday season and thus finally have some money around. Much of what is done for issue #32 is holiday- oriented or just plain too silly and funny for a world being terrorized by one hidden man in a far away country. Personally, I am too messed up by my Crohn's disease to be able to do anything other than Modern Ferret. Although I do have some good days or parts of days, I'm not well enough to leave the house on a daily basis (which unfortunately means I'm not well enough to even work on Modern Ferret on a daily basis). So whatever happens I will probably continue doing the magazine, although Mary may need to find work elsewhere in order to support us. With me working alone on the magazine and doing it when I'm able to work, it probably won't come out nearly as often as anyone would like it to -- but there aren't any other options presenting themselves at this point. So you can all consider me highly committed to the cause -- unfortunately, I'm not the most capable worker anymore. As I write this, it is Sunday night. I had my drain removed this past Monday and by Thursday I started having fevers. I started taking more antibiotics, but they haven't helped and I've run a fever constantly since Friday. So by tomorrow morning, I may be in the Emergency Room again -- in which case I will again be unable to do any work on Modern Ferret. Believe me, this is as frustrating to me as it is to any of our subscribers who want their magazine -- and it is a lot more painful for me. ====================================================== What we're doing now & the future of Modern Ferret: In light of our problems with our previous printer, we have located a new printer. We are hammering out the details of the specifications for printing the magazine. We are also working on finishing Issue #32. Although there is not much left to do on the issue, some of it needs to be reworked again to make it more appropriate. We had tried to finish it in November and made some changes from the original version, but probably even more changes need to be made now. At this point, finishing the issue is mostly a matter of Eric being well enough to sit at a computer for a week and put everything together. Unfortunately, that is extremely dependent on getting Eric well. We are finishing the last bit of work on the extremely delayed Litter Box Training Manual. When we started work on this book, we had a clear vision of the time and work it would require. However, we have hit many snags along the way. We know it is very late, and have made the completion of the book one of our highest priorities after getting out the next issue of the magazine. This book is just another example of us being overworked and yet taking on more work in the hope that somehow things will get better. From the very start, we have come up against great odds in publishing Modern Ferret. We have not come this far to throw it away. Instead, our resolve is that much stronger, knowing that we had done much good so far and knowing how much more good we can do for ferrets and their owners over the coming years. So for now, we intend to get out issue #32 of Modern Ferret as soon as we can, and then get to work on finishing the Litter Box Training Manual. Things are not going to happen quickly. We really can't help that -- bills have to be paid (which Modern Ferret has yet to really achieve) and our personal health issues have to be taken care of (which the stress from all of this doesn't help). We do need to find a more reasonable living situation and workload, and we need to figure out a way to earn a living and afford medical care (which Modern Ferret doesn't do). Many of the other things we had planned to do for ferrets will have to be set aside for now so that we can work on taking care of ourselves. Since the magazine does not actually earn a living for us, that is one of our top priorities. When we can take care of ourselves better, we'll do a lot better at taking care of others. We hope that many of you will be as patient with us as you can be. We certainly never expected to have anything worse happen to us than what we went through in 2000, and yet somehow worse did happen. There is no way to plan your life or your business around being dramatically ill or around insane terrorist attacks. There isn't enough time or enthusiasm here to try to return all the phone calls, faxes, emails, etc. But we will address customer service problems such as missing issues etc. over the next couple of weeks. We are going to try to get Modern Ferret going again as best as we can -- because that's the right thing to do for the sake of ferrets everywhere. ====================================================== How *you* can help us: Relaunching Modern Ferret is going to take a lot of money and effort. We are very committed to keeping Modern Ferret going because over the years we have realized that not only is there no other resource for ferrets that is like Modern Ferret -- there is no resource for *any* animal at all that is like Modern Ferret. Our dedication to ferrets and our love for them is what makes us work so hard. Right now we have been stagnant for way too long and we need to start bringing in some money so that we can both make the magazine well and so that we can take better care of our personal health to make ourselves well. We want to make sure that we can always maintain health insurance for ourselves as well as be able to move ourselves away from New York and towards a more relaxed, rural setting in perhaps Virginia or Maryland. Rather than begging you for money, all we ask is that you check out the following products that we are offering. Your purchase of any of these products will help us a lot -- and these are all products that we have in stock and can ship to you right away. The following products are available at our Ferret Trading Post online store - where you can learn more about them and then place your order on our safe, secure server hosted by Yahoo. http://www.ferrettradingpost.com Ferret Trading Post *note: The Ferret Trading Post can only deliver to street addresses located in the continental US. -- The Modern Ferret Take 25 Pack -- Take 25 Pack This is a lot of great information and fun -- all packed into one box that weighs about ten pounds! Not only do you get a lot of great ferret reading, but each one of these we sell means ten pounds less we have to bring with us when we move! *** See the special savings coupon code at the end of this newsletter -- we really don't want to have to carry all these magazines with us when we move! *** You get 25 back issues of Modern Ferret magazine -- and you'll see why we were chosen as one of the best magazines in the magazine industry. Every issue is filled with great photos, care tips, training tips, funny stories, medical information (with explanations written so you can understand them), and so much more -- all done from a ferret owner's viewpoint (because we're ferret owners too!). For more information or to place your order, go to: Take 25 Pack -- The Security Cube -- INVALID LINK REMOVED We designed the Security Cube with the needs of both the ferret and the owner in mind. Our ferrets all love their Security Cube! For more information or to place your order, go to: INVALID LINK REMOVED -- The Wit and Wisdom of the Modern Ferrets: A Ferret's Perspective on Ferret Care book-- Ferret care as explained by the ferrets of Modern Ferret magazine: Sabrina, Marshmallow, Knuks, Trixie, and Gabrielle. The book is a collection of the various columns written by the ferrets over the last five years. For more information or to place your order, go to: Wit and Wisdom Book * We also have: * Ferret T-shirts, mugs, mousepads, and more! Including the all-time favorite "#1 Ferret Mom" and the patriotic "I Stand For Freedom" and "Don't Tread On Me" images. All available at: http://www.ferretdesigns.com FerretDesigns.com "#1 Ferret Mom" * * * Mother's Day is May 12 * * * We have some great stuff for the #1 Ferret Mom in your life! To see the picture or to place your order, go to: #1 Ferret Mom "Ask Me About My Grandferrets" Do your parents like to brag about your furkids? If so, then they need the official "Ask Me About My Grandferrets" T-shirt or Long-Sleeve T-shirt. Available with red or blue text. To see the picture or to place your order, go to: Ask Me About My Grandferrets - Red Ask Me About My Grandferrets - Blue "I Stand For Freedom" Our original patriotic image - our ferret Gabrielle standing up in front of a red, white, and blue map of the U.S.A. Be sure to get yours in time for Memorial Day (May 27). To see the picture or to place your order, go to: I Stand For Freedom "Don't Tread On Me" Based on the revolutionary US flag design, this ferret shirt features a ferret with a bit of attitude. To see the picture or to place your order, go to: Don't Tread On Me ====================================================== - Special Coupon Code - - Save $10 on a Take 25 Pack - This is a special $10 coupon for you - the readers of our Modern Ferret News e-mail newsletter. We need to sell as many of our Take 25 Packs as possible to help us relaunch Modern Ferret and make it better than ever. Every Take 25 Pack you buy will help us! Remember - Take 25 Packs make great gifts for both new and experienced ferret owners! Hurry! This coupon is good until April 15, 2002. Order a Take 25 Pack from our website: Take 25 Pack When you go to the checkout page use the coupon code ferretnews2 to get $10 off your order for a Take 25 Pack. You'll see the $10 savings coupon on your order when you press "continue" to go to the next page. That's just $50 for 25 fun and informative back issues of Modern Ferret magazine delivered right to your door in one big box! Only $2 per issue for a wealth of care tips, toys you can make at home, great photos, health and medical developments, funny stories, ferret crafts, cartoons, training tips, and much much more! You can't afford to be without this much ferret reference material! More than 1,000 pages! Wow! Place your order today and we'll ship your Take 25 Pack to you right away! We have them stacked in our living room - ready to go! Hurry! This coupon is good until April 15, 2002. Your ferrets will thank you and we'll thank you too. Take 25 Pack - Save $10 on a Take 25 Pack - - Special Coupon Code - ====================================================== Thank you for reading this update from us. We hope to get this newsletter going again soon with more ferret care tips and other useful information. - Mary and Eric and their ferrets: Trixie, Balthazar, Cauliflower, Koosh, and Gabrielle ====================================================== You can subscribe or unsubscribe from this newsletter at any time by using the web-based form at: http://www.modernferrets.com Archives of this newsletter are available at: http://modernferrets.com/newsletterarchive.html Copyright 2002 Modern Ferret magazine. All rights reserved. http://www.modernferret.com |
| From: Mary R Shefferman Date: April 12, 2002 Subject: Modern Ferret News #16 - Fleas! |
ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø¤º°`° Modern Ferret News Mailing List Issue #16 April 12, 2002 by Mary R. Shefferman and Eric Shefferman contact: INVALID LINK REMOVED ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø¤º°`° --------------------------------------------------- See the bottom of this newsletter for a special code for our newsletter subscribers to save $10 on the purchase of a Take 25 Pack. --------------------------------------------------- ====================================================== Hi In this issue: - Spring is here, and so are fleas! - Mother's Day is coming! Download a free note card! - Update on Modern Ferret things - Coupon - Save $10 on a Take 25 Pack Subscribe/Unsubscribe instructions are at the end of this message. This ezine is by subscription only. You are receiving this ezine because you requested a subscription (or someone signed you up without your knowledge). This process is completely automated. ====================================================== ====================================================== ==> Spring is here, and so are fleas!
Ferrets are naturally itchy creatures - but that
doesn't mean they have fleas. Read this article
by Mary to learn more about fleas.
Anyone who has had a problem with fleas knows that they can be a nightmare. But for ferrets it isn't just a matter of being uncomfortable (although fleas certainly do make them uncomfortable). Because they are small, ferrets can become severely anemic if they suffer from multiple fleabites. Therefore, it is essential that you address flea problems immediately. Ferrets most often affected by fleas are those that live in a home with a dog or a cat. But if you take your ferret out for walks, your ferret is also at risk. Any animal that visits your home can bring fleas, as well. Fleas seek heat. Because of their high body temperature, ferrets attract fleas more readily than dogs or cats do. Our friend Shirley Hertzog of WarmFuzzy Ferret Rescue in Fleetwood, PA, says she has seen fleas literally jump from a cat to a ferret standing nearby. This means that if you have a dog or cat you need to check your ferrets for fleas even if the ferret never goes outside and even if the dog or cat doesn't have fleas. If you haven't done so yet, talk with your veterinarian about flea prevention for all the furry friends in your home. Check with your veterinarian before using any of the newer non-prescription flea prevention products on the market that are labeled for dogs and cats. Prescription products such as Advantage, Frontline, or Program are not labeled for ferrets, but many ferret owners have used these products with no problem. Talk with your veterinarian about your specific situation. If you don't have a dog or cat and you don't take your ferret out for walks, it is still a good idea to check your ferret occasionally for signs of fleas. You may not need to take preventive steps, but you will need to know what to do if your ferret gets fleas. There are now flea products (shampoos and sprays) on the market specifically designed for ferrets. If you are unable to find a ferret-specific product, you can use one that is safe for kittens. Products with rotenone or pyrethrin are all right, but keep in mind that ferrets may lick sprays or powders when they groom themselves or each other so use caution with these products. Do not use flea dips or flea collars on your ferret, regardless of whether they are safe for kittens. Do not use products that contain organo-phosphates on your ferret. Because multiple fleabites can cause anemia in ferrets, observe your ferret closely if he has fleas or has had fleas. If he doesn't seem to be feeling quite right, bring him to your veterinarian. Signs of anemia include weakness, tiredness, and lack of appetite. If your ferret is anemic, your veterinarian can prescribe treatment. -- This article originally appeared in Modern Ferret Magazine issue #23. To learn a lot about ferrets, order a Take 25 Pack of 25 Modern Ferret back- issues. It's over 1,000 pages of great information. See the coupon at the end of this newsletter to save $10 on the purchase of a Take 25 Pack. http://ferrettradingpost.com/take25pack.html ====================================================== ---------------------------------------------------
Be prepared to fight fleas!
The Flea Combat Package available from the
Ferret Trading Post has the tools you need:
o Ferret Flea/Tick Shampoo
o Ferret Flea/Tick Spray
o Flea Comb
INVALID LINK REMOVED --------------------------------------------------- ====================================================== ==> Mother's Day is May 12
Download and print out a FREE "#1 Ferret Mom"
note card from FerretDesigns.com
(matching T-shirts and mugs are available!)
Get a FREE "#1 Ferret Mom" note card from the Free Stuff section at www.FerretDesigns.com. Just download the Adobe Acrobat* format card and print it out on your color or black and white printer. *You can download the free Acrobat reader from www.adobe.com if you don't already have it. Download your FREE note card at: http://www.ferretdesigns.com/free-stuff/index.html Don't miss the new "#1 Ferret Mom" design available on shirts and mugs (it matches the card!): http://www.ferretdesigns.com/numberoneferretmom-rose/ ====================================================== --------------------------------------------------- Does YOUR mom consider your ferrets to be her grandferrets? Get her an "Ask Me About My Grandferrets!" shirt or tote bag for Mother's Day! http://www.ferretdesigns.com/askmeabout-red/ The perfect gift! --------------------------------------------------- ====================================================== ==> Update on Modern Ferret things
- from Eric
Our last newsletter went out on the March 24. By March 25, I was in really bad shape and wound up back in the Emergency Room due to constant fevers. I wound up being in the hospital from March 25 to March 30 - my second hospitalization this year. A new drain was attached to me and I was sent home on IV antibiotics. Every eight hours Mary has to play nurse and hook me up to my IV. The plan is to get me well enough and have my guts heal enough so that I can undergo surgery to have the leak in my intestines repaired and to surgically remove the infection in my abdomen. The short version of that is: 1. I'm a lot sicker than anyone originally thought. 2. Mary has been doing all she can to take care of me. I now get less done per day than I had ever imagined possible. I'm weak and tired a lot of the time. Although we have many things in place to move ahead with the magazine and our lives - they all require me to be healthy enough to do them. Hopefully I will be well enough for the surgery soon and hopefully the surgery will finally fix me so that I stop having fevers and pain all the time. In the meantime, we are making some progress on the next issue of Modern Ferret as well as some other projects. Unfortunately, nearly everything we attempt to do has to make some presumptions about my being healthy enough to actually get things done. I've spent 16 days in the hospital since the beginning of February - that is just beyond anything that can be planned for or predicted (and I still have at least one surgery coming up). Thanks for listening. More information and updates will be coming in our next newsletter. ====================================================== ====================================================== ==> Save $10 on a "Take 25 Pack"
of Modern Ferret back issues
Available at our Ferret Trading Post online store - where you can place your order on our safe, secure server hosted by Yahoo. You get 25 back issues of Modern Ferret magazine -- and you'll see why we were chosen as one of the best magazines in the magazine industry. Every issue is filled with great photos, care tips, training tips, funny stories, medical information (with explanations written so you can understand them), and so much more -- all done from a ferret owner's viewpoint (because we're ferret owners too!). This is a lot of great information and fun -- all packed into one box that weighs about ten pounds! Hurry! This coupon is good until April 15, 2002. Order a Take 25 Pack from our website: http://ferrettradingpost.com/take25pack.html When you go to the checkout page use the coupon code ferretnews2 to get $10 off your order for a Take 25 Pack. You'll see the $10 savings coupon on your order when you press "continue" to go to the next page. That's just $50 for 25 fun and informative back issues of Modern Ferret magazine delivered right to your door in one big box! Only $2 per issue for a wealth of care tips, toys you can make at home, great photos, health and medical developments, funny stories, ferret crafts, cartoons, training tips, and much much more! You can't afford to be without this much ferret reference material! More than 1,000 pages! Wow! ====================================================== This newsletter is by subscription only. You can subscribe or unsubscribe from this newsletter at any time by using the web-based form at: http://www.modernferrets.com Archives of this newsletter are available at: http://modernferrets.com/newsletterarchive.html Copyright 2002 Modern Ferret magazine. All rights reserved. http://www.modernferret.com |
| From: Mary R Shefferman Date: May 21, 2002 Subject: Hi - Ferrets need Spring Cleaning too! |
ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø¤º°`° Modern Ferret News Mailing List Issue #17 May 21, 2002 by Mary R. Shefferman and Eric Shefferman contact: INVALID LINK REMOVED ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø¤º°`° ====================================================== Hi In this issue: - It's Spring Cleaning time! Some of the things you can do to keep your ferrets happier and healthier and keep your home smelling better. - Update on Modern Ferret things: - Status update - Cauliflower has passed on - Please encourage us! Subscribe/Unsubscribe instructions are at the end of this message. This e-zine is by subscription only. You are receiving this e-zine because you requested a subscription (or someone signed you up without your knowledge). This process is completely automated. ====================================================== --------------------------------------------------- Need a patriotic ferret T-shirt to wear July 4? Check out these FerretDesigns.com designs! - I Stand For Freedom
http://www.ferretdesigns.com/standforfreedom
- Don't Tread On Me
http://www.ferretdesigns.com/donttreadonme
---------------------------------------------------
====================================================== ==> It's Spring Cleaning Time!
Some of the things you can do to keep your ferrets
happier and healthier and keep your home smelling
better.
By Eric Shefferman Now that it's starting to get warm out, it's time to start thinking about "Spring Cleaning," not just for yourself and your home, but for your ferrets too. This is a great opportunity to take all your litter boxes and give them a good scrubbing! We like to take ours outside and clean them with antibacterial dishwashing liquid and a scrubbing brush. You can even take your whole cage outside on a warm day and give it a good scrubbing as well. If you use linoleum or vinyl flooring you should clean it or replace it as needed. You should also give all your water bottles a good scrubbing. We like to use plenty of hot water, dishwashing liquid, and a good bottle brush. Be sure to rinse the bottles thoroughly. Washing all the hammocks and blankets will help your whole house smell better. The fabric in these items absorbs the ferrety smell and can often smell stronger than the ferrets themselves! If your hammocks and blankets are seeming a bit worn and frayed, you should replace them. Watch for signs that a ferret has been chewing on the fabric and watch for holes or loose threads that a ferret might get themselves caught on. We usually wash our hammocks with All "Free & Clear" (no dyes or perfumes) detergent and a little bit of bleach. We then run the washing machine a second time with just water to make sure that all the detergent and bleach is completely rinsed out of the fabric. Note: When you wash any of your ferret hammocks or blankets, always check to make sure there aren't any sleeping ferrets hiding in them. You should also check all your other ferret toys for signs of wear in ways that could be dangerous to your ferrets. Now's a good time to find all those corners around the house where your ferrets have been pooping and clean them. Ferrets are very scent oriented and once they have marked a spot as a place to go, you have to remove that smell or they will be inclined to keep going there. We like Nature's Miracle Stain & Odor Remover for safely and effectively removing those smells. And of course, you can clean and groom your ferrets too! A nice bath with ferret shampoo followed by ear cleaning, tooth cleaning, and nail clipping will have your ferrets looking and smelling great for when people come to visit. As you can see, Spring Cleaning isn't just for people anymore! Cleaning your ferret's things will make your home smell better and keep your ferrets happier and healthier. Useful links: Need replacement litter boxes? INVALID LINK REMOVED Need a replacement litter box scoop? INVALID LINK REMOVED Need replacement water bottles? INVALID LINK REMOVED Need a bottle brush? INVALID LINK REMOVED Need a replacement hammock or bed? INVALID LINK REMOVED Need some Nature's Miracle Stain and Odor Remover? INVALID LINK REMOVED ****************************************************** If you need a whole bunch of these items, check out our Super Deal Spring Cleaning Packages ****************************************************** ****************************************************** **** Super Deal Item - Spring Cleaning Set #1 You get: Nature's Miracle 32oz Stain & Odor Remover, Lixit Bottle Brush, Litter Scoop, 4 Oasis 16oz Clear Ferret Water Bottles, plus a bonus for your ferrets: a package of Totally Ferret Treats. All for $35 INVALID LINK REMOVED ****************************************************** ****************************************************** **** Super Deal Item - Spring Cleaning Set #2 You get: Nature's Miracle 32oz Stain & Odor Remover, Lixit Bottle Brush, Litter Scoop, 4 Oasis 16oz Clear Ferret Water Bottles, 4 Pet Mate Medium Litter Boxes, Ferret Shampoo - No Tears Aloe Vera Formula, plus TWO bonuses for your ferrets: a package of Totally Ferret Treats and a 4oz package of 8in1 Chicken Ferretbites. All for $50 INVALID LINK REMOVED ****************************************************** ****************************************************** **** Super Deal Item - Spring Cleaning Set #3 You get: Nature's Miracle 32oz Stain & Odor Remover, Lixit Bottle Brush, Litter Scoop, 4 Oasis 16oz Clear Ferret Water Bottles, 4 Pet Mate Medium Litter Boxes, Ferret Shampoo - No Tears Aloe Vera Formula, a Ferret Planet Security Cube, plus THREE bonuses for your ferrets: a package of Totally Ferret Treats, a 4oz package of 8in1 Chicken Ferretbites, and a Cheweasel Sampler 4 Pack. All for $70 INVALID LINK REMOVED ****************************************************** Need some ferret grooming supplies? See our favorite shampoos, ear cleaner, dental gel, etc. INVALID LINK REMOVED ====================================================== ---------------------------------------------------
Be prepared to fight fleas!
The Flea Combat Package available from the
Ferret Trading Post has the tools you need:
o Ferret Flea/Tick Shampoo
o Ferret Flea/Tick Spray
o Flea Comb
INVALID LINK REMOVED --------------------------------------------------- ====================================================== ==> Update on Modern Ferret things:
- Status update
- Cauliflower has passed on
- Please encourage us!
By Eric Shefferman Our last newsletter went out on April 12. I was hoping that my health problems would soon be resolved and that I would be able to get back to working on the magazine. On April 18 I started having fevers in the 102 to 104 range and on April 19 I was back in the Emergency Room again for another hospital stay - my third this year. This time I was in the hospital until April 26. When I got out of the hospital this time I was so weak I couldn't walk from my bed to the bathroom. I was kept on IV antibiotics and put on oral Flagyl as well. I now know why ferrets hate the taste of Flagyl! I am gradually getting some stamina back and really do want to get back to working on the magazine (and playing with the ferrets). I'm sorry to say that this is, of course, just another delay in getting the magazine finished. There isn't much that I can do about this - I certainly don't enjoy being hospitalized all the time, but until I get through this crisis the amount I can accomplish (and the amount Mary can accomplish while caring for me) is really limited. On another sad note, we just had to put Cauliflower to sleep. He was our huge albino boy featured on the cover and centerfold of Modern Ferret issue #30. He had had intestinal problems and surgery revealed that he had lymphoma and that something had burst in his intestines giving him a bad infection as well. We tried everything we could do, but he never came back to being himself. After weeks of him being weak but willing to eat when hand-fed, he suddenly refused to swallow food anymore. We brought him to our vet and it was clear that his body was completely failing. We put him to sleep to ease his suffering. We now have only 4 ferrets, the lowest number of ferrets we have had since 1997. It seems very strange now when they are out playing. Once you are used to a much larger number of ferrets, a mere 4 don't create enough mischief. *************************************************** How you can help us: Write some kind words to us. Please e-mail your encouragements to: INVALID LINK REMOVED We may not be able to reply to every message, but we will certainly read them all, print them out and hang them on our walls as daily reminders of why we need to keep our spirits up. We'll also put some of them up on our web site or in the magazine. *************************************************** Thanks for listening. More information and updates will be coming in our next newsletter. ====================================================== The _Modern Ferret News_ e-zine This free e-newsletter is by subscription only. You can subscribe or unsubscribe from this newsletter at any time by using the web-based form at: http://www.modernferrets.com Archives of this newsletter are available at: http://modernferrets.com/newsletterarchive.html Copyright 2002 Modern Ferret magazine. All rights reserved. http://www.modernferret.com |
| From: Mary R Shefferman Date: May 27, 2002 Subject: Hi - Ferret Vaccine Reactions Info |
ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø¤º°`° Modern Ferret News Mailing List Issue #18 May 27, 2002 by Mary R. Shefferman and Eric Shefferman contact: INVALID LINK REMOVED ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø¤º°`° ====================================================== Hi In this issue: - Worried about vaccine reactions? Don't know what a vaccine reaction is? Read about our first experience with the new Merial distemper vaccine for ferrets. - Update on Modern Ferret things Subscribe/Unsubscribe instructions are at the end of this message. This ezine is by subscription only. You are receiving this ezine because you requested a subscription (or someone signed you up without your knowledge). This process is completely automated. ====================================================== --------------------------------------------------- * * * FATHER'S DAY is coming on June 16! * * * Get that special ferret dad a very special shirt! * * * World's Greatest Ferret Dad * * * Also available as a mug and as a mouse pad! Shop now at FerretDesigns.com! - World's Greatest Ferret Dad
http://ferretdesigns.com/worldsgreatestferretdad
---------------------------------------------------
====================================================== ==> Worried about vaccine reactions?
Don't know what a vaccine reaction is?
Read about our first experience with the new
Merial distemper vaccine for ferrets.
By Mary R. Shefferman The other day our ferret Gabby had her canine distemper vaccination. The first year we vaccinated her (with Fervac-D), she was fine. The second year (again, with Fervac-D), she had a mild reaction. She vomited a bit and had some diarrhea. Vaccine reactions can range from mild to very serious to death. Vomiting and diarrhea is not as serious a reaction as shock, bloody diarrhea, or coma. But every vaccine reaction is important when deciding what to do when it's time for the next yearly vaccination. We've had some horror-story vaccine reactions in the past. Our beloved Knuks, who was a petite dark-eyed white, turned bright red (her skin) and went into shock just minutes after getting her distemper vaccination. It was 45 intense minutes, with our veterinarian giving her medications (steroids and antihistamines), before she began to come out of it. It took days before she was her pesty self again. The entire staff at the vet office remembers that reaction. With that background, we were very concerned about Gabby's distemper shot this year. Knowing that Merial has come out with a canine distemper vaccine for ferrets that is USDA approved, we decided to wait for our vet to get in that vaccine before getting Gabby her shot. I'm pleased to report that Gabby was fine. First our vet checked over Gabby to make sure she was healthy (you should never vaccinate a ferret who is ill). She then pre-treated Gabby with something to counteract any reaction that might occur -- just to be on the safe side. I stayed at the vet office for 45 minutes after Gabby's shot (you should ALWAYS wait at your vet's office for at least a half-hour after ANY vaccination). I checked on her in the car on the way home. At home, Eric and I checked on Gabby every couple of hours to make sure she was still ok. She was! Any time we vaccinate any animal, we run the risk of a reaction. We have to weigh the risk of reaction against the seriousness of the illness the vaccine protects against. In the case of canine distemper virus, we know that the illness always means death for a ferret. I can only speak for my own beliefs, but if I lost a ferret to an illness that I could have prevented, I would not be able to forgive myself. In the past, there was only one canine distemper vaccine for ferrets that was USDA-approved. That was Fervac-D (United). If a ferret had a reaction to that vaccine, we had to make some very hard decisions (pre-treat? not vaccinate? use a non-USDA-approved vaccine?). Now we have a choice. Purevax-D (Merial) is approved for use in ferrets. Now, if a ferret has a reaction to Fervac-D, we can choose a different APPROVED vaccine to protect against this deadly virus. Thus far, Purevax-D has seemed to have a lower incidence of reactions than Fervac-D. Ask your veterinarian about this new vaccine -- especially if you've ever had a ferret react to Fervac-D or any other canine distemper vaccine. Of course, ANY vaccine can cause a reaction in a particular animal. There are no guarantees. But having a choice gives us the kind of option in caring for our ferrets that we've long needed. Gabby is very happy. And so are we. ====================================================== --------------------------------------------------- Need a patriotic ferret T-shirt to wear July 4? Check out these FerretDesigns.com designs! - I Stand For Freedom
http://www.ferretdesigns.com/standforfreedom
- Don't Tread On Me
http://www.ferretdesigns.com/donttreadonme
---------------------------------------------------
====================================================== ==> Update on Modern Ferret things By Eric Shefferman Our last newsletter I asked people to send us some encouraging emails to help brighten our spirits. We received a TON of emails and I am printing them all out and filling a notebook with them! Thank you to all of you! I am in the process of trying to reply to as many of these emails as I can. If you want to send one, you still can. The address is: encourage@modernferret.com I was feeling well enough tonight that we were able to give all our ferrets a bath. Due to how ill I've been, this is the first time they've gotten a bath in nearly a year. I think they had all hoped that we had given up on bathing them! They all had picked up a sort of dusty smell and the dustiness was making both of us sneeze a bit when we played with them. After a bath and some ear cleaning, they all smell great now and are much more fluffy! I am making some progress with getting things done. I've been trying to tackle smaller projects that I can finish while working on the next issue of the magazine. So far I've done a lot to pretty up our Ferret Trading Post web site: http://www.ferrettradingpost.com I am also working on a redesign of the Ferret Designs web site. I'm not sure when it will be finished, but once it is there will be many new items available and many new designs. If all goes well, I should have some good news about the next magazine issue in the next newsletter. We're going to try to get these newsletters out more often since people seem to enjoy them. Thanks for listening. More information and updates will be coming in our next newsletter. ====================================================== --------------------------------------------------- The SECURITY CUBE - the better ferret hammock! Read more about the Ferret Planet Security Cube and order one today! Your ferrets will thank you! INVALID LINK REMOVED --------------------------------------------------- ====================================================== The _Modern Ferret News_ e-zine This free e-newsletter is by subscription only. You can subscribe or unsubscribe from this newsletter at any time by using the web-based form at: http://www.modernferrets.com Archives of this newsletter are available at: http://modernferrets.com/newsletterarchive.html Copyright 2002 Modern Ferret magazine. All rights reserved. http://www.modernferret.com |
| From: Mary R Shefferman Date: June 11, 2002 Subject: Ferrets Going Blind |
| ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø¤º°`°
Modern Ferret News Mailing List Issue #19 by Mary R. Shefferman and Eric Shefferman ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø¤º°`° ====================================================== In this issue: - Ferrets Going Blind - Super Savings on Nap Socks - Update on Modern Ferret things Subscribe/Unsubscribe instructions are at the end of ====================================================== --------------------------------------------------- Get that special ferret dad a very special shirt! * * * World's Greatest Ferret Dad T-Shirt * * * Also available as a mug and as a mouse pad! Shop now at http://www.FerretDesigns.com - World's Greatest Ferret Dad Many other great T-shirts to choose from! ====================================================== ==> Ferrets Going Blind By Eric Shefferman (No medical talk in this article, just some behavior Over the last few months, our oldest ferret, Trixie, Trixie still toodles around the room and she does run Trixie even still leaps from one section of the Since Trixie's favorite playing spots have always Dangling toys in front of Trixie still sends her Trixie's blindness is most noticeable when we're I don't think that a stranger walking into the house That's the way it often seems to be with ferrets that Even though ferrets do get along very well without ====================================================== --------------------------------------------------- Check out these FerretDesigns.com designs! - I Stand For Freedom - Don't Tread On Me ====================================================== ==> This issue's savings special: Save $5 on a Nap Sock - use the coupon code below! Nap Sock Link The ferret playing in the Nap Sock in the When you check out, use the coupon code: ferretnews19 When you click on the <Continue> button the $5 This coupon is good until June 17. The Ferret Trading Post ====================================================== ==> Update on Modern Ferret things By Eric Shefferman Tomorrow I go for my first Remicade treatment. The If you have the Adobe Acrobat Reader, you can read http://www.remicade-crohns.com/pdf/PPI.pdf Quite a few scary warnings! A quick thought here about watching out for yourself Watch for a change in address for this newsletter Assuming everything goes OK tomorrow there should be ====================================================== --------------------------------------------------- Read more about the Ferret Planet Security Cube and INVALID LINK REMOVED ====================================================== The _Modern Ferret News_ e-zine You can subscribe or unsubscribe from this newsletter Archives of this newsletter are available at: Copyright 2002 Modern Ferret magazine.
|
| From: Mary R
Shefferman Date: June 19, 2002 |
|
ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø¤º°`° Modern Ferret News Mailing
List Issue #20 by Mary R. Shefferman
and Eric Shefferman ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø,¸¸,ø¤º°`°º¤ø¤º°`° ====================================================== Since we starting doing
this newsletter, the response
- More Thoughts on Blind
Ferrets - Super Deal on Ferret
Note Cards - Update on Modern Ferret
things - Free Nap Sock Offer! Subscribe/Unsubscribe
instructions are at the end of ====================================================== --------------------------------------------------- Check out these FerretDesigns.com designs! - I Stand For Freedom - Don't Tread On Me Shop now at http://www.FerretDesigns.com ====================================================== The following article
is an email that we received Both blindness and
deafness are common enough in Reader Christa Hathaway
does a very good job of Her letter also helps
demonstrate how well ferrets - Eric
By Christa Hathaway Dear Eric & Mary, I want to thank you
for the article on Ferret Finally, I took Koto
off by himself while the others We are very cautious
with him when we pick him up Our ferrets have their
own play room, and I refuse to This note has gone
on longer than I had intended. I Thanks for all you do for ferrets everywhere! -- Christa Hathaway
====================================================== --------------------------------------------------- Read more about the
Ferret Planet Security Cube and INVALID LINK REMOVED ====================================================== ==> This issue's
savings alert: ***Half off*** on the Trixie's Itch Note Cards! We're clearing out our inventory of note cards! If you want to send
your friends ferret note cards Go to: These cards are packaged
10 to a box with 10 white Hurry!
INVALID LINK REMOVED
====================================================== ==> Update on Modern Ferret things By Eric Shefferman I'm pleased to say
we've finally made the switch This means that from
now on, your newsletters will Stay tuned! ====================================================== --------------------------------------------------- If you enjoy the Modern
Ferret News Newsletter, (plus now you can get a free Nap Sock!) This is the real printed
magazine inspired by Modern Ferret was considered
one of the 50 Most In 1999, Modern Ferret
was chosen as one of the With the Take 25 Pack,
you can get 25 back issues Every issue is filled
with great photos, care tips, This is a lot of great
information and fun -- all You can't afford to
be without this much ferret To order a Take 25 Pack see our website: http://ferrettradingpost.com/take25pack.html *** Special Offer *** Now for a limited time
you can get a Free Nap Sock Place a Take 25 Pack
in your shopping cart and then INVALID LINK REMOVED With both items in
your shopping cart, click on Enter the coupon code: freenapsock in the coupon code box. Type in the address
to ship to (remember, we can Click on the <Continue>
button to go to the payment Enter your payment
information and then click the Hurry! This coupon is good until June 26, 2002. You'll get a wealth
of care tips, toys you ---------------------------------------------------
The _Modern Ferret News_
e-zine You can subscribe or
unsubscribe from this newsletter Archives of this newsletter
are available at: Copyright 2002 Modern
Ferret magazine. |
| From: Mary R
Shefferman Date: June 30, 2002 |
====================================================== Modern Ferret News Mailing List Issue #21 http://www.ferretnews.com June 30, 2002 by Mary R. Shefferman and Eric Shefferman contact: INVALID LINK REMOVED ====================================================== Hi Here comes the summer heat! Be sure to read this issue's article on heatstroke and remember the warning signs. -------------------------------- Signs of Heatstroke in a Ferret: = Open-mouth breathing = Panting = Lethargy (inactivity) = Disorientation = Vomiting = Collapse = Elevated temperature -------------------------------- And for yourself: Dress for the heat while being stylish - be sure to check out our nifty ferret t-shirts at: http://www.ferretdesigns.com We hope that you and your ferrets have a happy, safe, and patriotic Fourth of July this week. Please remember that some ferrets are frightened by loud noises and some are not. Do your best to isolate the frightened ones from the sounds of fireworks so that they can have a Happy Fourth too. It's hot out and we'd like to keep busy during this holiday week so we came up with this Hot Summer Sale - save 50% on a Take 25 Pack of Modern Ferret back issues. You'll get a lot great ferret information and we'll keep busy packing your orders all this week! See the coupon code in this issue. - Eric >>> In this issue: <<< ==> Keeping it Cool:
How to prevent, recognize, and treat heatstroke
by Mary R. Shefferman
==> Hot Summer Savings on a Take 25 Pack - Coupon ==> Ferret News Update
This newsletter has a new website with new features!
------ Subscriptions ------ Join/Quit instructions are at the end of this message. This ezine is by request only. You are receiving this ezine because you requested it (or someone signed you up without your knowledge). This process is completely automated. ====================================================== --------------------------------------------------- Hot enough for you? It's T-Shirt season! Keep cool! Get your very own ferret T-shirt! http://www.ferretdesigns.com --------------------------------------------------- ====================================================== ==> Keeping it Cool:
How to prevent, recognize, and treat heatstroke
by Mary R. Shefferman
This article originally appeared in:
Modern Ferret Magazine Issue #23, page 19
Ferrets can adapt to many circumstances, but heat and high humidity are not among them. As the temperatures rise, ferret owners must take precautions to ensure their pets are safe and comfortable. Ferrets should NOT be kept in temperatures over 85-90 degrees Fahrenheit; lower temperatures (60's and 70's) are much better. Keeping your home at a ferret-safe temperature is easy if you have air conditioning. Remember that you need to maintain that safe temperature in the ferret room even when you are not at home. Make sure the air conditioner is not blowing cold air directly on the ferret cage and that the ferrets have blankets in case they feel too cold. Always give your ferrets plenty of fresh water and shade. Keep your ferret cage out of direct sunlight from windows or skylights. Window or ceiling fans can help keep cooler air circulating into your home, but may not be sufficient in areas where humidity is high and/or temperatures routinely reach over 90 degrees. Again, be sure the ferrets are not in the direct line of the breeze. Also make sure your ferrets cannot access the fan and that any device you put in your window is secure (to prevent escapes). Another way to keep ferrets cool is to make small blocks of ice, wrap them in absorbent towels (avoid plastic bags, especially if any of your ferrets like to chew on plastic), and place them in the ferrets' cage, or carrier if you are traveling. Make sure the ferrets have plenty of room to move away from the ice block if they get too cool. If your ferrets like to get wet (many don't), you can let them splash around in a plastic tub or bathtub filled with a small amount of cool (not cold) water. Always supervise your ferrets in the water. Don't leave your ferret in a car in hot weather. Inside a car can reach deadly temperatures in a matter of minutes - even with the windows open. If you can't bring ferrets inside (store, office, friend's home, restaurant), leave them at home. -------------------------------- Signs of Heatstroke in a Ferret: = Open-mouth breathing = Panting = Lethargy (inactivity) = Disorientation = Vomiting = Collapse = Elevated temperature -------------------------------- If you suspect your ferret is suffering from heatstroke, get him out of the heat immediately. Put cool (not cold) water on the ferret's paws to help cool him off. You can also place a cool wet cloth on the ferret's head. Do not dip the ferret in cold water, as this will cool him too quickly and cause him to go into shock. Give him water or electrolyte replacer (e.g., Pedialyte, Kao-Lectrolyte) if he is conscious. Do not try to give water to an unconscious ferret. You may have to hand-feed him the water or use a feeding syringe. Heatstroke may also deplete sugar levels, so a sugar source such as Nutrical, Karo Syrup (corn syrup), or maple syrup can be given to help restore sugar levels. Even if your ferret responds to this treatment, you should still have your veterinarian check him to make sure he is not dehydrated. He might still need to have subcutaneous fluids (injected under the skin) to regain hydration. If your ferret is unconscious do not try to force water or electrolyte replacer into him; instead, wet his paws with cool water while on the way to the veterinarian. Thanks to Dr. Ned Horowitz for his input on this article. ------ Bibliography ------ Fox. Biology and Diseases of the Ferret (Lea & Febiger, Philadelphia). Hillyer & Quesenberry. Ferrets, Rabbits, and Rodents: Clinical Medicine and Surgery (WB Saunders Co., Philadelphia). ------ NOTE ------ This article originally appeared in: Modern Ferret Magazine Issue #23, page 19 You can learn a lot by reading Modern Ferret back issues! See the coupon later in this issue for Super Hot Savings on Modern Ferret Magazine back issues - these are super special savings for the readers of this newsletter and you must use the provided coupon code to get them! ====================================================== REMEMBER: Your ferrets should always have plenty of fresh water available. We like to make sure they have several water bottles at different heights so they can choose the one they are most comfortable drinking from. Do you need a new set of water bottles or a bottle brush to clean them? We've got them right here: INVALID LINK REMOVED Or, check out our special Spring Cleaning Savings Packages. Clean bottles and litter boxes aren't just for spring! INVALID LINK REMOVED ====================================================== ==> Hot Summer Savings on a Take 25 Pack - Coupon You can learn a lot by reading Modern Ferret back issues! - Now you can save a lot by buying a Take 25 Pack at: http://ferrettradingpost.com/take25pack.html You can get a Take 25 Pack for Half Off! That's right - save $30 - but only this week! (We want to keep ourselves busy before the 4th!) Just use the coupon code: ferretnews21 This Hot Summer Special is available from now until July 5, so get your orders in now! With the Take 25 Pack, you will get 25 back issues of Modern Ferret magazine delivered right to your door. Over 1000 pages of ferret care information, fun, games, and more! Every issue is filled with great photos, care tips, training tips, funny stories, medical information (with explanations written so you can understand them), and so much more -- all done from a fellow ferret owner's viewpoint (because we're ferret owners too!). This is a lot of great information and fun -- all packed into one box that weighs about ten pounds! Again, this Hot Summer Special is only for this week! Learn more about the Take 25 Pack here: http://ferrettradingpost.com/take25pack.html Use this coupon code when you check out: ferretnews21 ====================================================== ==> Update on Modern Ferret things We've added a feedback form to the Modern Ferret News web site -- please let us know how we're doing. You can find the feedback form at: http://ferretnews.com/feedback.html We have some other improvements to the web site in the works as well! We're very happy with how this ezine has been growing -- please be sure to tell your friends about it! Remember that shopping at FerretDesigns.com and at FerretTradingPost.com helps support this newsletter and keep it free. Stay tuned! More great stuff is on the way! ====================================================== --------------------------------------------------- Super Deals and Super Savings on Ferret Products All available at our online store for quick and easy delivery to your home. Check them out! INVALID LINK REMOVED --------------------------------------------------- ====================================================== The _Modern Ferret News_ e-zine This free e-newsletter is by request only. Please let your ferret friends know about this newsletter and encourage them to subscribe. You can provide feedback about this issue at: http://ferretnews.com/feedback.html You can subscribe or unsubscribe from this newsletter at any time by using the web-based form at: http://www.ferretnews.com Disclaimer: http://ferretnews.com/disclaimer.html The short version of the disclaimer is: If your ferret is ill or you think your ferret is ill, bring your ferret to a ferret knowledgeable veterinarian. Archives of this newsletter are available at: http://modernferrets.com/newsletterarchive.html Copyright 2002 Modern Ferret magazine. All rights reserved. http://www.modernferret.com |
| From: Mary R
Shefferman Date: July 8, 2002 |
====================================================== Modern Ferret News Mailing List Issue #22 http://www.ferretnews.com July 8, 2002 by Mary R. Shefferman and Eric Shefferman contact: INVALID LINK REMOVED ====================================================== Hi >>> In this issue: <<< ==> Thinking Outside the Ferret Cage:
How to Keep Your Ferret Having Fun and
Reduce Unwanted Behaviors - Part I
by Eric Shefferman
==> Hot Summer Savings on Tunnel, Jump, and Roll Set
(Coupon)
==> Ferret News Update ------ Subscriptions ------ This ezine is by request only. You are receiving this ezine because you requested it (or someone signed you up without your knowledge). This process is completely automated via our web site where you can join/quit at any time (you won't be bothering anybody except some loose electrons): http://www.ferretnews.com If you know someone who would enjoy receiving this free newsletter, please let them know about it. ====================================================== --------------------------------------------------- Hot enough for you? It's T-Shirt season! Keep cool! Get your very own ferret T-shirt! http://www.FerretDesigns.com --------------------------------------------------- ====================================================== ==> Thinking Outside the Ferret Cage:
How to Keep Your Ferret Having Fun and
Reduce Unwanted Behaviors - Part I
by Eric Shefferman
If you're like many ferret owners, your ferrets spend a lot of the day in their cage. It's one of the easiest ways to be sure your ferrets are safe and not getting into trouble while you're out of your home. This makes it all the more important that when you let them out for their daily play that you do your best to provide them with exercise and intellectual stimulation. Many unwanted ferret behaviors stem from boredom. Your ferrets don't know what to do and they settle on something that annoys you. By keeping your ferrets active and intellectually stimulated you'll have sleepy, contented ferrets at the end of the day. -- Time: Your ferrets should ideally have time to play until they go to sleep on their own. For some ferrets that will be 3 or 4 hours every day; for other ferrets that will be an hour or 2 each day. For the most part, ferrets will do all right if they have at least 2 hours out each day, but the more time you can give them free run, the less likely they will be to resort to undesirable behaviors due to boredom. If they get a short run *occasionally* that's OK. But don't make brief playtimes a habit, as this will lead to undesired behavior. -- New toys: Ferrets will be interested in nearly anything for about 10 seconds. Some will find new things more interesting than that -- and some will find them more interesting when you actually play with them with the new toy. Use your judgment to find new things for them that will be safe (avoid things they can easily chew off a piece of, foam rubber, latex, etc.) and then supervise the interactions. Some cheap things that work as new toys or games: - paper grocery store bag Some ferrets just love the crinkly sound and love jumping in and out. - empty shoebox or other open-top box Our Gabrielle loves it when you cover her with the box for a few seconds and then lift it quickly with a "Peek a Boo!" - dangle a towel or blanket and let them chase it - drag a towel or blanket along the floor and let them ride it or chase it - remove the label from an empty soda bottle and let them push it around - use your imagination! Think about what your ferrets might find fun or interesting and give it a try! Again - always supervise how your ferrets play with their toys - especially new toys. Your ferrets count on you to keep them entertained. And if you take care of them, they'll keep you entertained too! Stay tuned for part II of this article next week! --------------------------------------------------- Do you have any tips you'd like to share on thinking outside the ferret cage? Use our feedback form at: http://ferretnews.com/feedback.html or send an email to INVALID LINK REMOVED with your tips and we'll publish the best ones in a future issue of this newsletter. --------------------------------------------------- ====================================================== ==> Hot Summer Savings on Ferret Toys - Coupon Save $10 on a Tunnel, Jump, and Roll Ferret Toy Set Don't let you're ferrets be bored! Get them a Tunnel, Jump, and Roll Set! Then get down on the floor and play with them! Includes: -- *Two* Ferret Super Thru-Way Tunnels These clear plastic tubes expand to 20 feet of fun. You get two of them so you can twist and bend them into all sorts of new shapes for your ferrets to explore! -- A Be-Bop Bouncer A soft bouncer toy attached to a hook by an elastic strap. Use a piece of string (not included) to attach it to you ceiling - or even better attach it to a wooden dowel and go "fishing" for ferret fun! The Be-Bop Bouncer has a bell inside so your ferret will be able to hear it coming! -- Sock R Ball The Sock R Ball easily opens so you can put in a scented object (worn sweaty socks are highly recommended). Your ferrets will then be able to chase it and roll it around. Decorated with a colorful ferret design. Order this toy set online and we'll deliver them to your door! That way you'll have more time to get down on the floor and play with your ferrets! INVALID LINK REMOVED Use this coupon code when you check out: ferretnews22 Hurry! This offer is only available until July 14! ====================================================== ==> Update on Modern Ferret things Remember that shopping at FerretDesigns.com and at FerretTradingPost.com helps support this newsletter and keep it free. Stay tuned! More great stuff is on the way! Next week: Part II of Thinking Outside the Cage For now, just go play with your ferrets! ====================================================== --------------------------------------------------- Super Deals and Super Savings on Ferret Products All available at our online store for quick and easy delivery to your home. Check them out! INVALID LINK REMOVED --------------------------------------------------- ====================================================== The _Modern Ferret News_ e-zine This free e-newsletter is by request only. Please let your ferret friends know about this newsletter and encourage them to subscribe. You can provide feedback about this issue at: http://ferretnews.com/feedback.html or by sending email to: INVALID LINK REMOVED You can subscribe or unsubscribe from this newsletter at any time by using the web-based form at: http://www.ferretnews.com If you are having problems joining/quitting please contact INVALID LINK REMOVED Disclaimer: http://ferretnews.com/disclaimer.html The shortened version of the disclaimer is: If your ferret is ill or you think your ferret is ill, bring your ferret to a ferret knowledgeable veterinarian. Archives of this newsletter are available at: http://modernferrets.com/newsletterarchive.html Copyright 2002 Modern Ferret magazine. All rights reserved. http://www.modernferret.com |
All contents Copyright 2001-2008 Modern Ferret Magazine. All rights reserved.