“Absolutely fascinating.........I wouldn't have believed the constant crowds around the display”
Crafts fair organiser, London area

Have you considered adding to the attractions at your event by hiring a professional ferret display? Ferrets have an undeniable attraction to people of all ages and all backgrounds, and crowds are guaranteed around the ferret display at any event, providing the display is well-organised, inter-active and - above all - of a professional standard.

Today's sophisticated public expect and demand the highest standards from displays and exhibitions, and The Ferret Roadshow, the mobile display unit of The National Ferret School, ensures that this demand is met. There are, of course, other organisations and individuals who undertake displays involving ferrets, and some of these are very good. However, the Ferret Roadshow, established in 1982, is the one which others seek to emulate. Over the years, the Ferret Roadshow has received many accolades, letters of thanks and general 'pats on the back' from event organisers, sponsors and members of the public.

The Ferret Roadshow always presents a professional and top class image which is ideally suited to all types of events - from country fairs to garden fêtes; agricultural shows to pet shows; village galas to specialised displays. The format and content of the display is tailored to suit the audience.

It is often said that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery and, if that is true, then the Ferret Roadshow has been - and continues to be - extremely flattered. However, imitations can only ever be second best, and the Ferret Roadshow will not rest on its laurels, continuing to improve its services, and ensuring that it keeps the number one position as the most professional display of its kind, giving exceptional value for money and providing an attraction second-to-none. The Ferret Roadshow will give an extra dimension and a fascinating attraction at your event; why not chat through your requirements and see what it can offer you?

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About The Man

"“A true enthusiast whose passion for his subject is infectious”
Fête organiser, Lincolnshire

The man behind the Ferret Roadshow is zoologist, author, writer and broadcaster James McKay, an articulate and captivating speaker who has had over 30 years' experience of ferrets and ferreting, and enjoys an international reputation as one of the foremost authorities on the subject, even being known in some quarters as "The Ferret Man". Former Chief Executive of the UK's National Federation of Zoos, James is a professional lecturer, and founder of The National Ferret School, whose Latin motto translates to "Improving the ferret's lot through education", aptly summing up the School's raison d'être.

Throughout Ferret Roadshow events, James talks authoritatively and entertainingly about both ferrets and ferreting, his many years of practical experience, boundless energy and infectious enthusiasm of the subject showing. He knows his animals well, and the rapport between animal and handler is clear for all to see. This relationship ensures that the animals are easy and safe for anyone to handle. James will not allow the public to put either themselves or the ferrets at risk in any way.

He is so concerned about the welfare of both ferrets and public that, under the auspices of The National Ferret School, he produced and published a code of conduct for organisers of ferret displays. A copy of this code is reproduced below.

The stand is open to the public throughout the event, and people are actively encouraged to participate and ask questions on all aspects of ferrets and ferreting - whether these questions are based on practical considerations, or are purely academic.

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The Service

“A non-stop show which attracted crowds of people throughout the three days” Show secretary, Wales


The Ferret Roadshow presents:

entertaining and educational talks, illustrated with living animals;
the opportunity for the public to handle ferrets;
an on-going inter-active display;
informative static displays;
main- and/or side-ring events.


The objective of Ferret Roadshow displays is to educate visitors to the event, in a very entertaining manner. This is achieved by various methods, all of which combine talk with the opportunity to both see and actually handle the ferrets themselves. These inter-active displays are complimented by a static interpretative display of photographs, drawings and equipment.

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The Equipment

"It was heartening to see such a professional standard of presentation and equipment."
Country fair organiser, Midlands

The Ferret Roadshow has a variety of equipment, all purpose-made to very high standards and infinitely suitable for the task. The whole display reflects a professional image and attitude which any organisation would be happy to be associated with. Ramshackle cages and other equipment - so often seen with other organisations - have no place with the Ferret Roadshow, and no-one else offers such a comprehensive and professional display and service.

The equipment includes;

a purpose built, variable size display pen (from 1 metre square to 4 metres by 4 metres);
purpose built nest boxes, which allow access to the animals, while still providing them with shelter;
a large selection of tame and handleable animals, ensuring availability for every appearance;
a large display of informative photographs and drawings;
a display of ferret and ferreting equipment.

All equipment is designed to ensure the safety and comfort of both the ferrets and the public, while at the same time facilitating the public's viewing of the animals and their antics.

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The Safeguards

"The care taken to ensure the well-being of both animals and public is worthy of praise"
Show secretary, Hampshire

The Ferret Roadshow has been operating since 1982 and, while well aware that in any activity there is always a potential for accidents, takes all possible care to minimise the risks involved.

Safeguards for audiences include;

7 #2.5 million public liability insurance.
7 "tame" animals, i.e. those that are used to being handled.
7 awareness of, and empathy with, public sensibilities.
7 adherence to Health and Safety Executive guidelines and practices.
7 adherence to the Code of Conduct of the Council for Environmental Education.
7 adherence to the Wildlife and Countryside Act.
7 registration under the Performing Animals (Regulation) Act.
7 registration with the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs.
7 first aid equipment and knowledge (both for animals and humans).
7 staff hold British Red Cross qualifications.
7 animals accompanied at all times while on site.

Safeguards for the animals include;

7 animals' welfare given highest priority.
7 suitable transport caging.
7 temperature regulation throughout transport and event.
7 constant availability of food and water.
7 animals kept in appropriate sized cages and groups at all times.
7 animals given regular veterinary treatment and/or vaccinations, as necessary.
7 adherence to Transport of Animals Orders.

James McKay personally accompanies all animals to venues, and it is James who gives all displays.


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