Ferrets are fascinating animals that make great pets for those who are willing to provide proper care and attention.
They are active and curious creatures that love to explore new environments and play for hours on end.
One way to keep your furry friend entertained and exercised is by taking them for a walk outside. However, taking a ferret for a walk can be a challenge, as they are known for their escape artist skills.
We’ll take a comprehensive look at tips on taking your ferret for a walk without escaping. There are certain things to keep in mind as these animals are full of fun.
1. Get the right equipment
The first step in taking your ferret for a walk is to ensure you have the right equipment. Unlike some other pets like dogs, ferrets need a harness instead of a collar that can easily slip off.
Ferrets have a long, thin body shape that can easily slip out of a non-adjusted or loose harness, so it’s essential to get the right fit.
The best harness type to use is an H-type harness, which fits snuggly around their neck and legs with a leash that attaches to the back.
Keep in mind that a ferret’s neck is fragile, and they can easily slip out of a too-loose harness, causing serious injury or escape.
Therefore, ensure the harness fits snugly and comfortably, but not too tight to restrict their movement or cause discomfort.
Additionally, choose a leash that is strong and long enough to keep the ferret safe while giving them freedom of movement.
2. Train your ferret to wear the harness gradually
Before taking your ferret for a walk, you must train them to wear the harness gradually. Begin by placing the harness around their neck but not adjusting it and rewarding them with treats and praise.
Repeat this process daily until they are comfortable with the harness around their neck before proceeding to adjust it on their body.
Gradually adjust the harness, and continue to reward and praise them each time they wear it.
Once your ferret is comfortable with the harness, add the leash and let them walk around the house while you hold onto the leash.
This process helps them get familiar with walking on a leash and feeling restricted by it.
3. Choose a safe outdoor environment
Choosing a safe outdoor environment is crucial to the success of your ferret’s walk, and should be a top priority.
Ferrets are agile and can squeeze through small openings, making them notorious escape artists.
As such, ensure the outdoor location is safe and secure, with no loose fences or narrow openings that can allow your ferret to escape.
In addition, make sure the area is free from other pets, predators, and hazards like standing water or poisonous plants.
Ideally, you should choose your backyard or a secure playpen with a cover to create a safe environment for your furry friend.
4. Supervision is key
Supervision is vital when taking your ferret outside for a walk. A ferret that gets too curious and spooked may try to escape and run away, and if unsupervised, it can easily get hurt or lost.
It’s essential to keep a close eye on your ferret at all times, ensuring they stay on the leash and don’t try to escape.
You can also use positive reinforcement to train your ferret to stay close to you during their walk.
Reward them with treats and praise when they stay within the allowed perimeter of the leash while exploring the outdoors.
5. Distract your ferret
Ferrets are naturally curious animals that can quickly get distracted by different things, making them try to escape or run away.
To keep them engaged and distracted, carry ferret toys or treats that you can use to lure them back to you.
You can also allow them to explore safe areas, such as under supervision and inside tunnels or small obstacles that can engage and keep them from escaping.
Our Final Thoughts
Overall, taking your ferret for a walk outdoors can be an enriching and enjoyable experience for both you and your furry friend. However, it is essential to prepare well, ensure you have the right equipment, and choose a safe outdoor environment.
With proper training, patience, and adequate supervision, you can safely take your ferret for a lovely walk without them getting hurt or escaping.
Follow these tips and experience the joy of walking your ferret responsibly!