What should i do?

Question
HI!,

I saw this poor sugar glider at a local pet shop in town.She was half scared to death curled up in the corner of its cage fearing the birds in the cage next door(as the birds scwaked loudly at the little fellow).I have done some reaserch about sugar gliders and am told not to purchace sugar gliders from pet stores.The sugar glider is about 1 year old.(this would be my first)Ive gone outside of town and have seen no sugar gliders in animal shelters and pounds.What should I do?

Answer
Dear Catherine:

I am so sorry it took so long for you to get this.  I answered this question within an hour of receiving your question, but I must not have clicked the send button after I answered it.  Sorry.  

The problem is that this pet shop owner will profit if you buy the glider.  Many people believe that they are rescuing the glider.  In a sense they are.  However, after she has been purchased and the pet shop profits, they will only replace her and the problem will continue.  The goal is to remove the demand so they have no reason to sell.  

You might try to talk to the pet shop owner.  This is a bad situation for the little glider.  Perhaps he will agree not to carry them anymore.  At the very least, you can provide him with some proper information on care and housing.  However, usually, they don't listen.  They provide the least amount of sustenance for the animal to live long enough to be sold.  

If I were you, I'd try to have a heart to heart with the owner.  But it can only be your decision on how to proceed.  I can't tell you not to buy the glider and would like to see her out of that environment as much as you.  But know that it may contribute to the problem if you buy the glider and encourage the pet shop to carry more.  

I'm sorry I wasn't more help in this ethical situation.  Please follow your heart.  

Laurie