just take your time with the new dog because its a bit older,but shouldnt have many problems the whippet is a handy little dog, start off with it seeing the ferret in the hutch running up and down so it gets used to seeing it,then let it see you playing with the ferret as much as possible so it sees its more like a friend a few wks in the hutch and a few wks you playing with ferret will help, next you could try a bowl of milk out for the ferret let the dog see it drinking the milk it will get curious to see what its drinking and should start drinking with the ferret,but just keep an eye on it.