ADVICE PLEASE

Question
Hi

I am thinking of buying my 7 year old daughter a pet, I started with hamsters but now I am more drawn to gerbils because they look more fun. Could you tell me about each of them and what is more suitable to her. She would like a pet she can handle without getting bitten !!  and she would like one that has a good temperament and is playful. Can you tell me about breeds and how big these creatures grow to. And one last thing, what is the average age span.
Sorry to bombade you , but I want to get it right !! - thanks Jimmy  

Answer
James,
 Hi. I'll tell you a bit about each and then give you my personal opinion. Hamsters are chubbier and furrier than gerbils. They are much more likely to cuddle than gerbils who are very fast and love to run around. Personally, i think that hamsters are easier to tame and and less likely to bite although many people think gerbils are the calmer of the two. Gerbils are also escape artists so be careful with the cage you get and also when you're holding them, be very careful not to let them out of your site. They are quick and very easy to lose sight of. Hamsters on the other hand aren't as fast so its hard to not be able to catch them. Also a big factor is the fact that gerbils really shouldn't be house alone. They are very social and do not do well alone. Just be sure to get two of the same sex or you'll have babies. On the other hand, hamsters should be kept alone as they are very solitary. Personally, i think a hamster is a better pet for a seven year old because they are big and fat and cuddly. But thats just my opinion and both animals make great pets. As for life span, syrain hamsters generally live 2-3 years and gerbils 3-4. Oh one more thing about hamsters. They are very clean and even though they somtimes sleep where they poop, they only poop in one place which makes daily cleanup easier. Gerbils poop everywhere but again, not a big deal. Good luck and i hope you find your perfect little guy!!

Blake