Seperation

Question
I have a question regarding the care of a sugar glider. I am planning on getting one, and have read everything about taking care of it, how things need to be done, and what they eat. so far i have read all positive things, and i would really like to consider it. The only problem is that a couple times a year, i would be leaving becuase of work. These trips are about 2 weeks long, and i am wondering what i would have to do make that time as comfortable as possible for the gliders. It would be impossible for me to take them with me, and they are business trips, and i live alone. What is the best course of action, to care for the gliders, or is there no real way to have 2 gliders stay alone for a maximum of 2 weeks? someone would be able to change the water, and provide food, i am just wondering if it would hurt the bonding relationship i would have with them, or if they would be ok, for such a long time.

Answer
Dear Rafal:

It is great that you are assessing this lifestyle issue prior to getting sugar gliders.  First of all, I would not recommend someone only coming in to feed them daily.  In my opinion, a majority of accidents happen while the owners are away and have someone caring for their gliders.  That is not to say that everyone who has gliders must leave them from time to time.  There are emergencies, vacations and other situations that cause us to be separated from time to time.  

I will tell you that it can go either way.  Bonded gliders will sometimes suffer separation symptoms of over-grooming, etc.  Will it affect the bonding?  That simply depends upon the degree of bonding that has taken place and the gliders' own personalities.  There is no way to predict how they will react.  Sometimes, they are just happy to see you back.  Sometimes, they will punish you a little for being away and remain distant for a few days.  

If you must leave, there are three options.  First, some people simply take their gliders and travel along with them. Reptariums work well to assemble and disassemble on the road.  Second, there are other glider owners that will "glider sit" while the owners are out of town.  If you choose this route, I would seriously check out their gliders, their home and ask for references.  Third, and my preference, have someone come to your home and stay there 24/7.  They house sit and glider sit.  You need to find someone you trust and someone you can count on to take care of them the same way you would if you were home.  Someone who is capable of identifying problems and capable of taking them to the vet if a crisis arises.

This is one of the reasons sugar gliders are considered "high-maintenance" pets.  

I am happy to provide you this information to help you make the best decision for your lifestyle.

Happy New Year!

Laurie