DEPARTMENT OF GAME AND FISHERIES 



No. 9 



Animals Stocked on Licensed Fir Farms as at "December 31st 



*Exclusive of muskrat. 



fExclusive of muskrat and beaver in semi-captivity. 



EXPERIMENTAL FUR FARM 



Investigations dealing with many problems connected with fur-farming 

 were carried out during the year. Owing to the appearance of several outbreaks 

 of contagious disease among Ontario foxes, considerable time was spent in 

 finding the causes and possible treatment for two of them. 



At the present time at least five contagious diseases are recognized among 

 foxes, namely distemper, contagious pneumonia, hemorrhagic septicemia, 

 encephalitis, and paratyphoid. The Experimental Fur Farm investigated dis- 

 temper and contagious pneumonia. 



Parasites and parasitic diseases continue to be of major importance. 

 Parasitic infestation among the fur-bearers of the Dominion appears to be 

 widespread. This applies not only to ranch-bred animals, but also to animals 

 taken directly from their natural environment. From the data gathered it is 

 found that fur-bearers in the wilds invariably harbour one or more parasites. 

 Particularly is this true of the animals that frequent sluggish waters and feed 

 upon the fish that live in these waters. To what extent parasitism may be 

 responsible for heavy annual losses among our fur-bearing animals offers a wide 

 field for investigation. 



Observations were continued with regard to the most suitable feeds and 

 methods of feeding for the large variety of animals on hand. This subject has 

 now to be studied not only from the nutritional point of view but from the econo- 

 mic as well. With the fox industry largely dependent upon the sale of pelts for 

 revenue, the question of overhead expenses is becoming more important yearly. 



Throughout the year there has been a marked increase in correspondence. 

 Enquiries were received from every province and many foreign countries con- 

 cerning every phase of fur-farming. During the summer and fall months 

 interviews take place daily with fur farmers regarding their various difficulties. 

 Frequently sick and injured animals are brought for treatment. 



