Adoption - The Shelter

One of the services performed by the Ferret Association of Connecticut, Inc. (FACT), is operating a shelter dedicated to ferrets. Ferrets are taken in, on a space available basis, from individuals who can no longer care for them, for whatever reason, as well as from public and private humane societies and shelters who are unfamiliar with ferrets or who are not equipped to house and care for them.

FACT's. Halfway House is a "no-kill" shelter. No ferret is put down unless it becomes medically necessary to do so. If we cannot find a home for an animal due to old age or medical problems, we either attempt to find an appropriate foster home with a FACT associate or simply continue to care for him or her at the shelter.

The Halfway House is entirely not-for-profit. It is housed in a private home. Volunteers caring for the animals freely donate their time. The shelter receives no state or federal grants. It is funded primarily through adoption fees, charitable contributions and funds raised by FACT through special events.

Adopting A Ferret

We require an in-person interview for all prospective adopters. The interview is intended to ascertain the prospective adopter's knowledge of ferret care, commitment level and understanding of a ferret's needs. Many of our animals have bounced through several homes before they arrive and need an owner committed to providing a permanent home.

Please note: FACT will not "ship" ferrets! As much as we know they all are in need of a good home, if you cannot come to FACT for an in-person interview, we cannot adopt to you. If you live too far to adopt from us, there are other options! Visit the Links page for information on finding and/or contacting a local shelter.

We retain the right to refuse to adopt to anyone. Our goal is to find the right owner for each animal, not just any owner. We try to carefully match the prospective adopter's needs to the needs of each ferret focusing on experience, personality and activity level. Those who currently own or have previously owned ferrets must also go through the interview process. If someone is seeking a companion for an existing ferret, they are urged to bring their ferret to the interview. Ferrets often have strong feelings about other ferrets and it is wise to consult their wishes!

Adoption fees are primarily based on the age of the ferret. We have taken in ferrets from 6 weeks up to 9 years of age. All ferrets available for adoption are altered. The adoption fee for a ferret one year and under would range from $60 to $85. Fees are reduced for older animals and pairs who must remain together. Adoption fees for senior citizens (5 years and up) or problem children are significantly reduced for anyone willing to provide the special care they may need. FACT also maintains a foster program for the elderly in which FACT associates provide a home for these gentle survivors. FACT, principally through a special Grandparent program, covers their veterinary expenses.

We offer a full refund within two weeks should unforeseen problems occur. Within one month, we will either refund 50% of the adoption fee or substitute an equivalent animal. We remain available to provide advice, as needed, to help the adopted ferret settle in comfortably.

Ferrets are very adaptable pets. Unlike many species, a ferret does not "bond" closely with their owner and readily become accustomed to new habits and environments. For someone new to ferret ownership, a slightly older animal, already litter trained and with an established personality, is a wonderful way to become accustomed to a ferret's winning ways without the challenges a hyperactive baby ferret may pose.
The ferrets in the Halfway House have lost their home through no fault of their own. They would make a wonderful addition to a loving family.

Application

Please contact us us for an adoption application.