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From the age of 16, zoologist James McKay has been involved in the world of ferrets and ferreting. The author of the "Complete Guide to Ferrets", he is recognized as a leading authority and expert on the care, raising, and history of ferrets. Whether you are considering ferret ownership or you already have one of these pets in your life, having a ferret guide is essential in keeping your ferret happy and healthy. This guide has many important points that should be known to all ferret owners.

"Complete Guide to Ferrets" is broken into 10 different chapters. Beginning with the origins of ferrets and their past uses to the genetics, James McKay gives an in-depth look at these unique animals. The origins of the ferret are many times misquoted and incorrect information is often given on the history of the ferret. The author takes readers on a journey throughout historical text that sheds some light on the truths and inaccurate reports that have been claimed about the ferret.

Because Mr. McKay is an expert with working ferrets, his guide gives detailed and careful instructions on the handling, taming, and training of this distinctive creature. Hunting rabbits with ferrets is still a popular sport in many parts of the world although it is illegal in many parts of the United States. Being from Europe, Mr. McKay is able to give an inside glimpse at the world of working ferrets, a world that many Americans have little knowledge or have ever seen. This comprehensive chapter on working ferrets discusses not just how this is achieved but the origins of working ferrets, the tools needed, and how to train a ferret for rabbit hunting.

Ferrets can be more than companion pets or working animals. This guide covers how far ferret ownership has come over the years. Popular in the United States are ferrets shows and even ferret racing. Both of these topics are covered along with helpful advice on the characteristics of show ferrets. Since most ferrets in the United States are kept as pets, Mr. McKay also includes the elements of pet ownership including housing, bathing, and feeding.

One of the most important factors in any good pet guide is vital information on the care and health of that animal. One chapter is dedicated to illnesses, first-aid, and the common diseases of ferrets. Several issues rarely seen in other ferret guides are rat and snake bites, both of which are covered in this book. While it would be rare that a house ferret would ever have to worry about this topic, it is an important aspect for working ferrets that go into dark holes.

Not only is it important for ferret owners to have basic knowledge about their animals, it is important to have accurate information. "Complete Guide to Ferrets" goes beyond providing expert care tips and basic ferret health information. Mr. McKay holds demonstrations and gives lectures about ferrets which disprove many of the misleading myths that have circulated throughout history. He offers a chronological look at this exceptional creature that takes this animal beyond an adorable pet into an intelligent animal that should be appreciated and respected.

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