Buying a Sugar Glider
Do not buy sugar gliders from Exhibitions, Trade shows, Trading village‘s, Fairs, and Flea Markets these are places where impulse buying is the way they make their money. They show you these cute tiny babies, and pull you in, These poor babie's are pulled from their parents way too early. As early as 4-5 weeks OOP. ( they should not be pulled no earlier than 8 weeks OOP.) Most of these babies die, because they do not have their mother to care for them. How many have to die before we stop buying from these people.
You’d think the best place to get a glider would be the pet store. NO, Most do not know how to care for the glider, they can’t spend time with it. And, they are not familiar with the diet. And, usually they have them in a glass arena. 1foot by 1 foot .How can a tree dwelling animal climb? If the Pet store claims to have knowledge on sugar gliders, ask them questions you already know. If they do not answer questions correctly, DO NOT BUY. Ask which breeder they purchased from. Ask, Do You have the lineage ( like a pedigree) If it is an onsite breeder, that is good. If it is from a mill, DO NOT BUY.
Many buyers must find someone to care for their new pet, because it was not what they expected. Thus, another unwanted glider.
Check the cages that the breeder is keeping their gliders in. Is it dirty? Although gliders have a natural odor, watch out for any unusual or exceedingly offensive odors that may suggest a dirty cage/pouch or even illness. Look for an overall clean cage. Old feces/food in the food bowl may point to delayed care. DO NOT BUY FROM THIS BREEDER.
The glider should have nice round eyes, not cloudy , no drainage, and not sunken in. Ears should be erect, and smooth. The ears should not have cracks or crusts on them. The fur should be dense all over, without bald patches, or clusters of parasites. The skin should feel smooth with no cuts, bumps, etc. And the glider should be alert, not sluggish.
This page was last updated: February 22, 2010
