All you need to know about fostering and/or adopting a ferret from V.I. FERT 

*You must be over 19 years of age to Foster or Adopt without parental consent* 

The processes to Adopt or Foster are the same. We also offer the option to Foster to Adopt - where the ferrets are placed in the home as fosters so that the family can see if the ferrets fit well into the home prior to the commitment of adoption.  This program is highly recommended for those who are new to life with ferrets.  

We are a RAW FEEDING rescue.  All new intakes are transitioned to a balanced raw diet of commercial grinds.  Continuing to feed the ferrets a balanced raw diet is vital to their continuing health and is REQUIRED of all applicants.  

To ensure the best ferret care possible, all potential foster parents and adopters must go through the application process, detailed below: 

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1. Application Form (below).  

• Once we receive the completed Foster/Adoption application form, our directors will review the application form and arrange for an interview time.  

• Directors will note any initial questions, issues or items requiring clarification. 

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2. Interview.  

• The interview is conducted by phone and takes about an hour, give or take. 

• We use this time to assess your ferret knowledge base/experience, gather information to assist in helping find a suitable ferret match, discuss any concerns you or questions you have, as well as your expectations regarding life with ferrets.   

• After a successful interview, your references (provided in the written application) will be contacted. 

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3. Virtual Home Visit.  

• This is done using video chat. 

• We are looking for any ferret hazards, provide advice on what needs ferret proofing and answer any questions you may have. 

• The Home Visit allows us to ensure the home and family are truly prepared for the ferret invasion. 

This process can take up to two weeks, depending on your location, the availability of directors as well as our ability to contact your references. We appreciate your patience.  

The adoption or fostering process may be terminated at any time if the directors feel that they have been misled by the party wishing to adopt/foster or if the directors feel that a ferret's needs will not be adequately met. 

Filling out an application does not guarantee an adoption or foster ferret placement. 

It is possible for homes to be approved only to have any available ferrets not be suitable for the home; in these situations, the adopter or foster parent will be put on a waitlist and contacted when we find a better match. This process is not meant to insult or discriminate, but rather to ensure that the ferrets and family’s needs are met. 

All new intakes are quarantined for 2 weeks where they are assessed for behaviour and health issues.  Ferrets are then taken to one of our veterinarians for a general health check prior to being placed as available for adoption.  

*A clean bill of health from the veterinarian simply means that the ferret(s) did not display any sign of illness at the time of the visit, and no health concerns were raised by the foster family (if applicable). It is not a guarantee that health conditions such as lymphoma, insulinoma or adrenal disease will not develop. 

Adoptive families are responsible for all pet related costs once adoption is final. 

Foster families are responsible for purchasing and supplying all daily expenses such as food (raw), bedding, dishes, toys, litter boxes, litter, puppy pads etc. Sometimes these items will come with ferrets but it is not guaranteed.  We may have some extra items that foster homes are welcome to borrow if needed.  

If a veterinarian visit is required, the foster parent is responsible for booking the appointment  and taking the ferret(s) in.  

If the foster parent misses the scheduled vet appointment, they are responsible for the late/missed appointment fee.  

The Society of V.I. FERT will subsidize or fully cover costs of foster ferret veterinarian visits and medications as required and as funds are available. 

Foster-to-Adopt families will be treated as foster families unless otherwise stipulated and agreed upon at the outset. The ferret(s) in a Foster to Adopt situation are listed as “Adoption Pending” for 30 days. After 30 days the family has three choices to choose from: 

1.  Adopt the ferret(s) 

2.  Return the ferrets and all equipment  

3.  Carry on as a foster home and the ferret(s) become available for adoption.