ferret travel
Ferret Travel
Unlike other pets, which you need to leave at home when you are out and about – the ferret loves to travel with you! This article will cover everything you need to know in order to travel successfully with your ferret.
Ferret Travel – So you want to take your ferret with you
In order to keep your ferret safe and happy, yet portable – consider investing in a small pet carryall. You can find these in most pet stores. Look for one with a shoulder strap and ideally see-through mesh windows. You will want one that you can easily carry your ferret plus water bottle. Many people also like to choose carryalls that can accommodate litter pans and food dishes. The size of the carryall and the supplies you will need to bring with you mainly determine on the length of the trip. The general rule is “always be prepared.”
Here are some examples:
Ferret Travel – Ferrets and Cars
Your ferret can definitely come riding in the car with you. However, due to your ferrets determined curiosity it is best to keep him or her in their carrier bag. You do not need a ferret underfoot while driving down the road! Even if you aren’t actively driving, it is best not to allow your ferret free reign in the car as many ferrets have managed to find small crevices that lead to areas of the car you cannot easily access (between layers for example.)
Ferret Travel – Keep an eye on temperature
If you want to take your ferret with you on errands, the first thing you must check is the temperature outside if there is any chance you will either be outdoors for a lengthy period of time OR if you need to leave your ferret in your car for any length of time. How warm is too warm? Anything at or above 80 degrees Fahrenheit should be avoided. Even with water available and windows rolled down, this temperature is not safe to leave your ferret unattended in your car.
Signs your ferret is getting too warm include panting, limp body, and confusion (this is serious.) If your ferret does become overheated he or she will need to be cooled down right away. The best way to reduce your ferrets temperature is to feed him or her cool but not cold water (while moving to a cooler location) as soon as you see signs of overheating. Over the next day you will then need to make extra effort to feed your ferret fluids and if at all possible. Any ferret that goes into heat shock should receive medical attention as soon as possible.
Ferrets are pretty tolerant of cool weather and many even enjoy a brief run through the snow. Avoid any kind of prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures and rain. Signs that your ferret has been over exposed include shivering and repeated attempts to climb into your jacket.
Ferret Travel: Can my ferret ride with me on an airplane?
Call your airline to see if ferrets are allowed to ride with you in a carrier for a fee. Some airlines allow this, while others do not. If you do get permission, make sure that you get this in writing so that you don’t show up the day of and find yourself being told this is against the rules.
Most ferrets will travel reasonably fine without medication. If you have any doubts, well before your trip begin acclimating your ferret to his carry cage. Reward good behavior with treats, and gradually extend the time that your ferret spends in his or her travel cage until this mimics the trip that you will be going on.
