Question about Marshalls ferrets vs. other breeders

[KellyNZoo]

A friend of mine got two ferrets from the same store about 2 years ago, but about 3 months apart.

Now, I know for a fact that this store sells Marshalls ferrets, but they told her her first was from NewYork, and NOT a Marshalls. She was told they had this breeder as a "trial" breeder, and then they switched to Marshalls before she got her second fert.

I had always thought that 90% of the ferts came from Marshalls, and it was very hard to find some that weren't..?

They both have the tattoo'd ears, so I also assumed that meant they were BOTH Marshalls.

Any ideas?

[taku]

Many smaller ferret breeders..whether they breed for a particular pet store company, individual franchises, or both..or whatever...use the same system as Marshalls. Two blackish-to-bluish dots on the right ear to indicate that the animal has been spayed/neutered and descented.
  Supposedly, only a "true Marshall's ferret" comes with "official Martin's paperwork." As if thats something to write home about.
  Just love the ferret, regardless.

[bubbleslovesfuzzies]

Adopt a ferret next time!!! They will love you more for it!

[fuzzy_ferret_luver]

I don't think it matters where you get your ferret, as long as you research first. EVERY ferret deserves a good home, whether they are from a shelter or petstore.

Did she say what breeder it was, the name? The only other major breeder that sells to petstores besides Marshalls (that I know of) is Path Valley Farm. Did the ferret come with papers?