So, Marc and I have discussed the possibility of getting either a cat or a pair of ferrets when I return to the US.  However, recently Marc had a good suggestion as to a way to help us make a more informed decision as to which to get:  fostering.

Now, I have never raised ferrets before, but I have raised many, many other kinds of small animals (including rats, which have a similar curiosity and tendency toward destruction), and I think that I would be fine with ferrets, probably better than many folks for whom they are merely a “cool pet”.  That said, since ferrets live about 8 years on average, I would not want to jump into ownership lightly, and so I think Marc’s recent suggestion of fostering might be a great way to give us an idea of what they are like as pets.  Despite the fact that I used to work for a wildlife rescue when I was a kid, the thought of fostering had never occurred to me, but since Marc sometimes volunteers at an animal shelter, I guess the option was more obvious to him.

Anyway.  For now, enjoy this adorable photo of a ferret that is the regimental mascot for a British army regiment:

 

Come on, is that not absolutely adorable?  I am generally not a fan of putting animals into clothing, but ferrets tend to look absolutely hilarious in it.  I saw a ferret-sized bomber jacket a few months ago, and it made me want a ferret to go in it, the way that baby clothes make some people want a kid.  I’m weird – I don’t want kids, I just want animals.  ;)

If any of you have experience with fostering ferrets (or hell, any other kind of animal), I would love to hear about your experiences.