Hnadling Gerbils

Question
We just got two gerbils about four days ago and we have been holding them and letting them climb on our shoulders and play in our laps a diferent expert that said you should let the gerbils sniff you hand for 1 week, then sit on it and take treats from your hand for another week, and only then you can hold them. And after 3 weeks of holding the gerbil, you can let it climb on your shoulders. is it okay for us to hold our geerbils and over time theyw on't be scared any more, or should we stop holding them and follow the schedule given by the other expert?
Thank You!!!

Answer
Hi Moki,

Well, that's a very cautious way to become accustomed to your gerbils.  And it's fine, as long as you have the patience.  Usually, I recommend not handling the new gerbil for 48 hours, and then put your hand in the cage with a treat and let them sniff it.  Then, after doing this a few times, you can handle the gerbil.  

However, you can still handle your gerbils.  Just be careful that you're sitting down on the floor, so that if one gets scared and jumps, he won't have far to fall.

If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.

Kelly