Its all about the ferrets!
Who we are and what we do
Little Paws Ferret rescue was formed after another rescue closed its doors after 15 years of hard work. The supporters were devastated when it closed as a rescue and became a Trust to look after the remaining ferrets that were deemed unrehomable. After mourning the loss of this wonderful organisation a few of the supporters gathered together to discuss the future.
Based in Tyne and Wear, Little Paws Ferret Rescue (registered charity number 1182331) is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming ferrets. The rescue is run by a board of trustees as well as a dedicated team of volunteers who strive to inspire and educate others to improve the lives of ferrets Nationwide.
We aim to improve the lives of domesticated ferrets and educate owners to provide better care and housing. Our education programs aim to equip ferret owners, volunteers and professionals working with ferrets in the animal health and care sectors, with the knowledge and understanding needed to safely care for and handle ferrets. We also work with local vets and organisations to create educational and research materials to better understand ferret health and welfare. Join us in our fight by learning more about our mission and supporting our cause.
Specialising in ferrets, Little Paws Ferret Rescue takes in approximately 100-150 unwanted, abandoned, neglected and mistreated animals every year with the aim of rehabilitating and rehoming each one.
Many ferrets arriving at the rescue are suffering from health or behavioural problems and require ongoing treatment, training and specialist care. These ferrets will remain with the rescue either at the main facility in Sunderland or with foster carers based throughout the North East and Cumbria, so that they can recover or learn how to behave.
Occasionally and space dependent, we will offer to foster animals when owners have temporary housing, or health issues. We have also helped a number of owners by providing food or vet care when their financial position was insufficient to afford the cost. This support is assessed on a case to case basis and is dependent on rescue funds available.
Little Paws Ferret Rescue work for the benefit of the public, to relieve the suffering of ferrets in need of care and attention. We aim to promote humane behaviour towards ferrets providing appropriate care, protection, treatment and security for ferrets which are in need of care and attention by reason of sickness, maltreatment, poor circumstances or ill usage and to educate the public in ferret welfare.
Adoptions Policy
We are trying to do what we can to keep the number of abandoned/neglected ferrets to a minimum,by making sure we have all of our ferrets neutered. Ferrets will not be rehomed until they are over 12 weeks old.
Full rescue backup is provided and should you find that you can no longer look after your adopted ferret then you MUST return them to the rescue so that we can seek a suitable new home for them.
When you adopt a ferret from the rescue you will be fully responsible for providing suitable housing, feeding and medical costs of the ferret.