traveling for the weekend

Question
Hey Shawntiah :)

I have 2 young gerbils, and I have leaving for the weekend.  I won't be able to take care of them from Thursday through Sunday evening.  Will this be a problem? What should I do? Will bringing them an hour an a half by car each way be a big problem with stress dealing with traveling?  Or will it not be a problem at all? If it is a problem, in the future, what is the "maximum" number of days a gerbil can be left unattended?

Related question:  I heard that if you play with your gerbils every day they will be healthier and live happier lives.  Is this EXTREMELY important? What if I miss a day, or dealing with travel, is that bad?

Answer
Hello Philip,
don't be so worried about gerbils and take a deep breath and relax your mind a little. Okay generally when I go on vacation if i'm not gone more than 7 days then I know my pet will be fine as long as he has plenty of food and water. Some people will buy two bowls to put in the cage and fill both up with food. Some people will also buy two water bottles to put on the cage as well.
Also, if you want them to come along with you it's perfectly fine as well. I generally place my hamster in a smaller cage like a travel cage and set him on the floor of the back seat of my car and I take his bigger cage and place it back there to. He has done fine on all his rides and he actually sleeps the whole time. If your cage is too big or too heavy you could buy a super pet mini crittertrail and place them in that for your trip. It comes with a wheel water bottle and food dish and is generally under $20. My hamster traveled 3 hours with me in his cage and did fine. Also playing with your gerbil does make them happier because they get to interact with their owner and are more affectionate and tamed. If you miss a day or you are unable to because you are traveling don't worry though, they will be fine since they have each other for company. Just be sure to greet them with open arms eeerrr.. i mean hands. Also, if you feel really guilty why not buy then a new chew treat to snack on, I know they would love that from you. :-) I hope I made you feel better. Good luck. :-)