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The American Ferret Association is aware of recent community concern and public discussion involving Marshall BioResources, Marshall
Farms, animal research, breeding practices, and product availability. These topics are emotional and complex, and AFA understands why
many ferret owners, shelters, rescues, and advocates are seeking guidance.
AFA’s mission is to promote, protect, and provide for the domesticated ferret. That mission requires us to advocate clearly for ferret
welfare while also acting responsibly, thoughtfully, and constructively. We believe ferrets are best served when advocacy is grounded in
facts, veterinary expertise, humane care standards, and respectful engagement.
AFA does not condone the suffering of any ferret for any reason. We support strong welfare standards for all individuals and entities
that breed, house, transport, sell, shelter, study, or care for ferrets. We also believe that lasting progress is more likely through
constructive communication than through speculation, hostility, or division.
Marshall is a significant presence in the domesticated ferret community. Many ferrets in the United States come from Marshall, and
many owners rely on Marshall-related products. For that reason, AFA believes engagement, transparency, and collaboration are essential.
We can raise welfare concerns and advocate for improvement while still pursuing a productive relationship focused on better outcomes for
ferrets.
AFA will continue to evaluate these issues carefully and encourages the community to remain calm, compassionate, and focused on the
well-being of ferrets.
AFA Position Statement on Marshall BioResources, Ferrets Used in Research, and Animal Testing
AFA understands the concern and emotion surrounding the use of ferrets in research. Our mission is to promote, protect, and provide
for domesticated ferrets, and we support efforts to reduce and replace animal testing wherever scientifically appropriate. We also
believe that lasting progress is best achieved through fact-based advocacy, welfare-focused standards, veterinary expertise, and
constructive dialogue. AFA does not condone the use of ferrets in research and will continue to advocate for humane care, transparency,
and accountability.
For the full AFA Position Statement on Testing and Research
click here.
American Ferret Association Statement on Responsible Breeding and Ferret Welfare Standards
AFA believes every facility that breeds, houses, sells, shelters, or cares for ferrets should follow responsible breeding and
veterinary care standards. This includes appropriate housing, nutrition, vaccination protocols, preventive care, and veterinary guidance
on spay/neuter timing. Because Marshall is a major source of domesticated ferrets, AFA believes constructive engagement is important.
We can advocate for improvements while maintaining respectful communication focused on the welfare of ferrets.
For the full AFA Position Statement on Breeding and Ferret Welfare
click here.
American Ferret Association Statement on Marshall Ferret Food Availability and Retailer Decisions
AFA is aware of concerns about Marshall ferret food availability through Chewy. Many ferrets rely on this food, and sudden diet
changes can create real care challenges. We encourage owners to remain calm, avoid speculation, and make nutrition decisions based on
their ferret’s needs, veterinary guidance, and reliable product availability. No ferret owner should be shamed for feeding a food their
ferret tolerates and depends on.
For the full AFA Position Statement on Marshall Ferret Food Availability
click here.
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| Legalize Ferrets in California: A Historic Opportunity
After decades of outdated restrictions, Petition 2025-003 is officially on the docket to remove ferrets
from California’s Prohibited Species List—thanks to the tireless advocacy of Pat Wright and LegalizeFerrets.org.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is expected to hear the petition around August 11–12, and now is
the time to rally expert support.
We need veterinarians, biologists, wildlife experts, former animal control officers, and shelter professionals to
submit letters and testify via Zoom (honorarium available). This is more than a policy change—it’s a chance to correct a
nearly century-old injustice and ensure the ferrets in CA receive the care and support they deserve.
Take Action:
Submit a Letter of Support (template available), and encourage your veterinarians to provide a letter of support
Testify via Zoom (earn $125 honorarium for experts), and encourage your veterinarians to testify
Join the Movement — sign up at LegalizeFerrets.org, donate, and share!
Let’s make history together. Legalize ferrets in California—because science, compassion, and common sense demand it.
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