Lone Degu

Question
Hi, I volunteer at an animal shelter and 2 weeks ago I adopted a degu when her time was up. I  believe it is an adult female but know nothing about the animal other than that. It seems to be in good health, orange teeth, may be a little on the heavy side, it's tail looks like it was broken off at some point (healed now). It was in a tiny (hamster)cage with a small wheel. I've put her in a large 33"x18"x33" wire and metal cage with solid floors. I have put many toys/shelves/12" solid wheel in to keep her busy. I give her dust baths several times a week to roll in. I'm sorry to read that it may never be happy unless I try to find another one, (which I don't really want to do), if they didn't get along, I wouldn't have room for another cage as large as that one. I also keep several rescue hamsters and a gerbil. She (Dusty the degu) can see the other animals, I don't know if that helps? (or is stressful)She doesn't cry or squeak or anything. She's aways comes to the door when I come in for a treat. Otherwise she loves running on her wheel. Can a single degu be happy?  I'm just trying to get to know her. She's not big on being touched but I've been able to stroke her nose a few times after giving a piece of veggie. I've found it difficult to find any information on them. I read one suggestion for socializing them is to sit in a bath tub with them and let them check out your clothes/scent, while letting them have a little crawl around. Any info would be appreciated, as I want her to have a good rest of her life.  Thanks for your time.

Answer
Greetings!
First go to www.degumaniac.com and check out if you REALLY have a female--no testes on the males tends to confuse most people.  As for how it will do alone is anyone's guess.  Some actually die of a broken heart, but some can live as a solitary animal with much human socializing.  It's not optimal, but I do understand your reasons for not wanting another.  I personally do not recommend the tub thing,as they are remarkable climbers and can get away from you faster than you can imagine.  Buy a ball for it to run around the house in, and slowly get to where it takes the treats from your hand.  Eventually you will probably get to the point it will let you hold it openly.  Some never do, though most of mine are fine with it.  I have a couple who are just VERY shy and don't want to be held.  Try not to traumatize it, so anytime a transfer is made use a large jar and let it crawl in...eventually it will want to crawl out onto you and explore you.  Be careful--they jump!  Mostly it's just a matter of being patient and gentle, knowing it will take time.

Good luck,
Carol