longivety and care

Question
We had a dog for 15 years who we had to put down last summer. I don't think we are ready for another dog but am considering a hamster or gerbil for the kids, not sure which. Is there a big difference in the disposition of a hamster or gerbil? Do they enjoy being pet, handled by little hands? How long do they typically live?  

Answer
Hi Thembi,

For children, your best bet is a Syrian hamster (also called "Teddy Bear," "Golden," and "Black Bear").  Gerbils take longer to tame, and they're pretty hyperactive.  Similarly, dwarf hamsters take longer to tame.  Syrian hamsters, on the other hand, are easily tamed, and they're simple to take care of.  They're good pets for kids, as they don't mind being handled and pet, as long as your kids are gentle and calm when they're handling the hamster.  They typically live about 2-2 1/2 years, although they can easily live up to 3 years.

When you go to the pet store to pick out your hamster, make sure the pet store is clean and well-maintained.  Also, make sure the hamsters are kept in same-sex cages.  Too often, females and males are kept together, and you end up with a pregnant female.  If the males and females are kept together, pick a male to ensure you won't have a bunch of new hamsters in a couple of weeks.  (There's not much difference between males and females as far as the behavior and disposition goes.)  The hamster should be between 6-8 weeks old.  Look for smooth, unruffled fur, a dry, clean bottom, bright eyes, and overall alertness.

The hamster's cage should be filled with Aspen or Carefresh bedding; Pine and Cedar and dangerous and are notorious for causing respiratory infections in small animals.  Also, don't handle your new hamster for 48 hours after he/she has been brought home, to ensure that the new hamster is not stressed.

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

Kelly