MbShea@PWP@English@UMCP

Abstract: A cute, cuddly ferret seems like the perfect pet, right? However, few people are aware of all of the responsibilities required to be an effective ferret owner. According to a 2012 survey conducted by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), 334 out of every 1000 households in the United States owns a ferret. This is obviously a large number, but how many of these households houses a truly happy, thriving ferret? Therefore, there is an increasing need to educate these current owners and any prospective owners of all of the time and resources that go into raising a healthy, happy ferret. I will compile information from the American Ferret Association (AFA) and other knowledgeable, high-ethos sources to compile a ferret guide that contains a ferret’s needs and instructions on how to properly take care of one. I will also include information from a current ferret owner about his personal experiences with raising his pet ferret, Pacino. Adding these personal reflections will not only increase the pathos of my document but will hopefully emphasize to readers the importance of following the instructions provided in this guide. Not following these instructions could lead to an unhappy ferret, and an overall unpleasant pet and owner relationship.

WC: 203

Reader’s Profile: I imagine a current ferret owner who may be struggling with an unhappy, misbehaving ferret, or a prospective owner overwhelmed by the cuteness of ferrets. This prospective owner may be overlooking all of the responsibilities required of them. Hopefully this document will be able to educate both the current and prospective owner.

Reader’s Response: I now realize that not all pets require the same amount of care, and that I cannot just care for my ferret like I would care for my dog. Ferrets are considered exotic animals for a reason, and they require special attention and care. A ferret might not be the appropriate pet for my needs, lifestyle, and personal budget, and so I must consider all of this before adopting one. If I am a current owner, the same applies, and if I realize that I am unable to provide adequate care for my ferret, I should seriously consider turning my ferret over to someone who will be able to care for it.

Y, good use of logos at beginning.

Can you define happy? For ferrets, of course. What does literature say? You might look at some zoo literature about similar classes of animals. Generally, that life allows for natural habits of being, including some hunting/predation behavior and stimulation.

I see your ABT statement here!

Also, citation type? What are you thinking now?