Bonding

Question
Hi.
I recently purchased a a four month old female sugar glider. (Is this a young adult or a baby?) I don't really know how much she was handled before she got to me. Nonetheless, she is friendly and very curious(loves to explore my room) though she is a bit nippy. I try to keep her on my person during the day in a pouch or in a pocket. She does not crab as much at me anymore and seems to recognize me and even lets me pet her. I work at night unfortunately, so it's hard to spend that time with her when she is active - I am hoping they will change my schedule soon. If not, I'm thinking of changing my sleeping pattern. My glider will not climb on me or even stay on my shoulder for more than three minutes. She will not let me hold her in my hand either. (Though she likes to sleep near me.) I cannot get her to actually stay on me. Is it her personality or that she just doesn't fully trust me yet? Is there something more I can do to bond? I'm glad that she enjoys her cage and enjoys my room - I just wish she would stay near me a little bit more. (I have had the glider for two weeks so far.)

Also, I will be going away for a least three days. She will be with my mother who will be home 24 hours a day and whose scent she also recognizes. I'm thinking of making a list of important things for mom to remember to do for the glider when I am away and leaving the vet's number. Is there anything more I can do to ensure her better care for while I am away? I do not want my little friend to be stressed out or depressed.  

Answer
Young Adult.. Baby.. they are all babies to me!

In my experience in rescuing gliders there is no such thing as a lost cause.. I have handled and even rehabilitated the worst of the worst as far as socialization is of concern. So please do continue what you are doing as far as the bonding goes.. you are on the right track! and when you have the time to bond more frequently then by all means please do so! Time will surely be what is needed in your case.

With keeping gliders onto you.. each time she hops off.. put her right back on.. persistence is the key.. she will learn as you go..
You might try letting her run about and play before you try handling her or starting your training sessions with her in the beginning.. this way she has let all of her playfulness out and perhaps will be more easily handled and or reconditioned.. offering her a treat whenever she comes to you is also a big plus in the glider mind.. as their tummies are the true passage to their affections.. you MUST be patient and always remember.. you can't take the glide our of the glider.. it is just a part of who they are as and what makes them such interesting pets!

If you can keep your glider in your own home I think that will be best for her.. but if not and your mother is there to fill the void then I believe she will not suffer and extreme loss in your absence.

Best Wishes & Please do keep in touch!

Your Pal

Kaden O_o