leaving city

Question
Hi,

I have a Syrian Russian Hamster. I brought him home about a week ago and he couldn't have adjusted more perfectly. I am in University at a school about a 3 hour drive away from home.  I will have to go home next week from thursday morning to sunday morning.  I know travelling with a hamster (via car) can create a lot stress for him.  Unfortunately, I havn't found anyone able to care for him, and might be forced to take him with me.  I really don't want to leave him alone, how long would a hamster be able to stay on his own? And, if I do have to end up taking him, what should I expect and how can I make it less stressful for my little guy?

Any responses ASAP would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
I will assume you have a Syrian hamster, since a Syrian and a Russian are two separate breeds, there is no such thing as a Syrian Russian. I had to move my hamster from Ohio to Florida in the summer heat over 2 days, so I have plenty of experience moving hams. Hams should go no more then 3 days without care from the outside. Their food will run out and their water will become stagnant. If possible get a pet carrier, one of those nice sturdy plastic ones, not wire and not cloth. It's much less dangerous to transport your hamster in a small vessel like this rather then his large cage. I used a tiny cardboard box as a hiding place in his carrier so he could feel safe. Pad up his area in the car so that the ride doesn't become bumpy, and don't leave the carrier in direct sunlight or wind. Other then that the hamster should be just fine on the drive.