Ferrets (Mustela furo) are becoming increasingly popular as “pets” in South Africa.
“People who are relatively new to our country and are adventurous, and they want a furry friend, tend to show an interest in ferrets,” Dr Ashley Naidoo, CEO of CapeNature, pointed out. “However, there are several reasons these creatures do not make ideal pets.”
She pointed out that ferrets have not been domesticated for thousands of years, unlike domestic dogs and cats, and there is a lack of research and knowledge regarding diseases that ferrets might carry.
“Therefore, it’s very difficult for any vet to ensure that an animal is disease-free,” she explained. Research shows evidence that some of the diseases in America associated with the Endangered American black-footed ferret are attributable to their import. They have been found to carry rabies, for which there is no proven vaccine. In other parts of the world ferrets have been found to be carriers of bovine tuberculosis.
CapeNature views ferrets as highly undesirable in the Western Cape. A permit is required for all activities involving them (ie buying, selling, donating, possession, captivity, transport and import).
“Anyone found keeping ferrets without a permit could be in contravention of the provisions of the Nature Conservation Ordinance,” Naidoo said, “and, if found guilty, will face legal consequences. The increase in pet-ferret encounters in the Western Cape sadly illustrated that people are importing, keeping and/or trading in ferrets without concern for the dire environmental risk such activities pose to the precious biodiversity of the province. I want to urge the public to work with us in curbing wildlife crime by reporting any suspicious activity related to the illegal collection and trade of animals and plants. This includes our succulent plants, which continue to be heavily impacted.”
Call CapeNature on 087 087 9262 or contact the Crime Stop tip-off line on 08600 10 111 to report wildlife crime.
