I’m not allowed a ferret!

by Claire.L.Miller
(United Kingdom)

I am a 13 year old girl who lives in the UK. I am desperate for a ferret and have been so for years. The only problem is, my parents won’t let me get one! I have done everything I can think of, such as writing letters to them and showing them pictures. I already have three pets, but I really want a ferret.

I have told my mum and dad that i will get a job delivering papers at a local shop to cover the costs of keeping a ferret. My brother works there and gets paid at least £76 a month (sometimes up to £160). On top of this I also get £20 of pocket money a month from my dad.

From what I’ve read online, this should be more than enough to keep one. I would also put aside a sum of money every month to cover any vet bills, or I could take out insurance. What would be better?

I know lots about ferrets and I have not just jumped into this without doing my research. I have cared for lots of animals before, such as guinea pigs, dogs and gerbils. I am aware that ferrets are a big commitment, but I am partly responsible for an epileptic dog. For her I have to remember to give her pills five times a day, what pills to give her, when to give them, what to do if she has a fit, to know when her fits are different or prolonged and a lot more.

I know I can handle a ferret if I can efficiently care for epileptic dogs for a whole day without any help. I have plenty of time on my hands to look after a ferret.

My parents say I can’t have one just because they ‘don’t want any more pets’. I have already changed their mind from ‘ferrets are spiteful and bitey’ to ‘ferrets are cute and nice’. Is there any way I can sway them to let me have one?

Thank you so much for reading this! Any advice will be greatly appreciated 🙂