Ferret Attack

[Altonafamily]

Our neighbors have decided to let their ferret out of their house daily, and last night we were woken up by one of our ladies screeching. Run out there and find this ferret tearing her up. I tried throwing a rocks at it but it kept going at her. So I ran and grabbed our sons BBgun and shot the thing 3 times before it ran in the woods. The ferret is most likely still alive. My question is does anyone know what the Washington laws are for this? Was I in the wrong? How should I go about this problem?

 

[Folly's place]

Short answer; kill ferret if possible. Call animal control and possible the sherrif's office ASAP. Talk to neighbor, she's responsible for damages. State and local laws vary, your vet may also be of help. Good luck. Mary

 

[crchickens]

I do not think ferrets are allowed to run wild. I would think she is breaking the law. That is just crazy. I am not sure ferrets are required to get rabies vaccines, and should not be out running.

 

[bobbi-j]

I think I'd just make sure the ferret quietly disappeared... SSS If the neighbor was concerned for the ferret's safety, it wouldn't be allowed out of the house - especially at night and without supervision.

 

[Ibicella]

The city of Bellingham has an "At Large" ordinance which means that animal control can do something about it. Though at this point, I'd just shoot it.