Gerbils are some of the most popular small pets in the United States and the United Kingdom alike, especially for families with small children or a limited amount of space. Although small in size, the amount of joy that these tiny friends bring to their owners is massive. A recent survey showed that out of 300 people 17% of them actually own gerbils. Not bad at all! Still need more convincing? Here are 10 reasons why you should get a gerbil.
- Cost Efficient
Let’s be honest. When considering buying a pet the first thing to consider is the cost. Pets are not just animals. They are a very important part of the family and unfortunately it can show in your bank account. Gerbils are some of the most cost efficient pets you can have. They do not require outfits, or leashes. They don’t require groomers, or expensive fencing. And food! Ask any pet owner of a larger animal. Food can go pretty quickly with a larger pet in the house. Fortunately with a gerbil their tiny bodies can only consume so much. Way to save money!
- Low Maintenance
The next thing to consider is how much time you have on your hands. If you spend a lot of time at work, school, etc. you do not necessarily have time for a pet. They require a lot of attention overall and an empty house may not be the best thing. But a gerbil is right up your alley! They can pretty much entertain themselves. All you need to do is invest in a wheel for exercise, a couple of small toys to avoid boredom, and most importantly food and water. All they really need is your love…and food. Easy, right?
- Smell and Cleanup
Have you ever cleaned up after a dog or a cat? Not a pleasant smell to even the biggest animal lover. Ever clean up after a gerbil? It’s the easiest cleanup ever. And it doesn’t even smell! Because they are so small there is a limit to the amount of stench they produce and their small “business” has nothing on a litter box! Nor do you need a pooper-scooper. Ultimately they are the winners of the easy cleanup award! Yaye!! Gerbil!!
- Friendly and Sociable
Wondering what makes gerbils so great for small children? Well besides their size they are extremely friendly and sociable. They are also very playful so you don’t have to worry about your small child getting on your gerbil’s nerves. They are always ready for a small adventure or just to rest in the warm palms of your hands. And who doesn’t want a tiny loving pet resting in their hands?!
- Fun
Yes. Gerbils are quite funny and entertaining. From running on their wheel, to playing with their favorite toy, to digging holes in their cages, you can watch them play all day. They never get tired. This is better for children who don’t get tired either. Haha!
- Multiples
Now no one really wants their pet to be lonely but with the time and money required for one pet, who can afford to have more than one?! Want multiple pets? Get gerbils!! Being the social animals that they are 2 are better than 1. Yes, gerbils get lonely too. Just be sure they are the same gender, unless you want a lot of pups (baby gerbils) to take care of. Having 2 -3 gerbils in the house doesn’t require much more work than having 1. There’s just more love to go around!
- Variety
Gerbils also come in different sizes and colors. Although some may look the same they are very different with variations in color, slight differentiations in size, and tails, as they should with over 110 different species! Only about two different species are kept as pets however that is one cool fact!
- Sleep
Just like human beings animals sleep too. Larger pets like cats and dogs sleep like human beings, typically at night in a bed (or their favorite spot) and wake up after an adequate amount of sleep. Gerbils are up and about all day and night! You always have someone to play with. Why sleep when you can party all night right? I wouldn’t recommend keeping them in your bedroom unless you want to party as well.
- Not Aggressive
Something you definitely don’t have to worry about with a gerbil is aggression. They don’t attack, and are not easily agitated. Just love them and they will love you back.
- Furry
They are furry!! Who doesn’t want a tiny pet with fur?! This makes you want to cuddle them and love them even more. Their coats are even manageable so you have the benefits of having a furry pet and none of the extra work. I mean you can’t go wrong with gerbils!!
HOW TO ADOPT
If you are sold here is some information on how to adopt a gerbil.
Where: There are various sites and places to adopt gerbils.
Apoptapet.com is a great site to adopt pets including gerbils. All you have to do is select your location and preferences and the site provides you with the shelters in your area that meet your gerbil preferences!!
How: Here is more information on both gerbils and “Adopt a Pet” policies.
Where: There is also the American Gerbil Society where you can adopt from breeders and shelters alike.
GOOD LUCK!!!!!