my chinchilla

Question
Hello! I recently bought a chinchilla. We got her from a local pet store that doesn't usually sell chinchillas. They said the previous owner of her bread them. We have had her for about 2-3 weeks. She isn't warming up to us and doesn't like to be held. She lets me put my hands in her cage but wont let me touch her. She will although, take rasins and sunflower seeds from my fingers. Im afraid she will never let us catch her and hold her. What should I do. Your advice would be greatly appretiated!! Thank you.
Elaine

Answer
In my experience chinchillas are not known for their ability to warm up to human affection--unlike, for example, a dog.  I would recommend setting up an extended period of time--a few hours--in an area where your chin can run free and you can be present.  Let the chinchilla get used to you on her own terms.  I've always used this kind of mutual acclimation with my chins and it's always had great results.  But be patient.  Repeat the process until you sense your chin is warming up to you.