In this candid Q&A, Craig and Emma share their experiences of adopting Dusty, the support they received from Little Valley, and the joys of life with their new furry companion.
What inspired you to adopt a ferret, and why did you choose Dusty in particular?
We’ve kept ferrets for 25 years, and each one has their own unique personality. After recently losing one, we wanted a companion for Arthur, a ferret we adopted in March from the RSPCA’s West Hatch centre. Dusty caught our eye with his playful nature and love of cuddles. He had been at Little Valley for two years, and we couldn’t understand why—he’s such a lovely ferret! We knew he’d be a perfect fit.
How did you first come across Dusty at RSPCA Little Valley?
We found Dusty’s profile on their website and felt an immediate connection. The staff were very helpful when we called about the process. After discussing Dusty and our home setup, we made the trip from Dorset to Devon to meet him. When we saw him, it was love at first sight, and he came home with us that day!
What was the adoption process like with Little Valley?
The process was smooth and well-organised. The staff provided all the information we needed and were very supportive. They made sure Dusty would be a good fit for us, and everything fell into place quickly.
How has Dusty’s personality shone through since bringing him home?
Dusty’s playful and curious nature has really blossomed. He loves exploring and climbing—his favourite spot is the kitchen table, though we often have to lift him down! He’s also very affectionate and quickly made himself at home. It’s been wonderful to see him settle in so well.
Has Dusty settled in as you expected, or were there any surprises?
Dusty settled in faster than we anticipated. His adventurous spirit keeps us on our toes, but it’s all part of his charm. We might need to build him a climbing frame to keep up with his energy!
What does a typical day with Dusty look like?
Dusty has a routine now. He starts the day with playtime, exploring every corner of the room. Afterward, he takes a nap on the sofa. He also enjoys a weekly treat of an egg and malt paste when it’s time to trim his claws. Evenings are for more playtime and cuddles before he settles in for the night.
What has been the most rewarding part of adopting Dusty?
Watching Dusty grow more confident every day has been incredibly rewarding. He and Arthur have become great companions, and seeing them play together is a joy. Knowing we’ve given Dusty a loving home after his long wait at the shelter makes it all worthwhile.
How has Dusty fitted into your home environment?
Dusty has fit in beautifully. We’ve made a few adjustments, like securing areas where he likes to climb, but overall, he’s settled in wonderfully. It feels like he’s always been part of our family.
What advice would you give to others considering adopting a ferret, especially from a rescue centre?
Adopting a ferret is incredibly rewarding, but they do require plenty of attention and time to bond. They quickly become part of the family, bringing endless joy. We highly recommend adopting from a centre like Little Valley—the staff are wonderful, and they’ll help you find the perfect match.
Have you needed any ongoing support from Little Valley since adopting Dusty?
Yes, we’ve reached out to them a couple of times with questions, and they’ve been fantastic. Their aftercare has been excellent, and they genuinely care about the animals they rehome. We’re very grateful for their ongoing support.
How do you see your life with Dusty evolving in the future?
We’re looking forward to many happy years with Dusty and Arthur. Our home wouldn’t be the same without them. We hope to see Dusty continue to thrive and maybe even add another ferret to the mix one day, so he has even more company. Whatever the future holds, we know Dusty will be a big part of it, bringing joy and laughter into our lives every day.