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www.oakvillebeaver.com The Oakville Beaver, Friday March 28, 2008 - 27 Two gerbils are better than one O wning one pet is often enough for a household. Feeding, veterinarian expenses, and day-to-day care are necessary for any animal and require time and commitment. In the case of gerbil ownership, although care is not as high demand as some pets, taking on the responsibility of two is better than one to help maintain a happy and healthy pet. Social by nature, the gerbil is a colony animal. They enjoy having companionship and have a need to groom, dine and sleep with another of their kind. When selecting a pair of gerbils stick to the following rule: same age, same gender and same family. "Mixing gerbils of different families or ages can result in territorial fights and fatalities," stated Heather White, Community Outreach and Education Manager at the Oakville and District Humane Society. "The greater the number of gerbils housed together, the more likely that they will become territorial. "Before choosing any gerbil, make sure that you research their suitability for your family," said White. Gerbils are diumal, being active both at night and during the day. To ensure good pet behaviour, they require a consistent day and night cycle. Lights must be turned on or curtains opened every day and closed every night. The favoured feature of a gerbil is its curious nature. Even simple toys can lead to a variety of different antics. This curious nature makes it important to watch your gerbil at all times if out loose in your home. They leap, jump, burrow and climb their way through everything. Like most small rodents, gerbils also chew and will gnaw at carpet, cords, wires and clothes. They are also very agile and can climb through even the smallest of holes. No home can be completely gerbil-proofed as a result. Gerbils grow to be about 50-60 grams, which is just a little larger than a hamster, and most live from three to five years. Due to their small and delicate bodies, it is important not to leave gerbils in the sole care of young children who may inadvertently injure these small creatures. Training is best left in the hands of an adult with most pets, but children can have a role in teaching. Gerbils can be trained to climb on your shoulder or sit on your head. Before any training make sure that the gerbil has time to get used to you. Do not attempt to pick up a gerbil without first putting your hand in the cage and allowing it to come over and sniff and crawl all over it. Do this many times before attempting to pick it up. Offering a piece of apple, sunflower seed or carrot every time they climb onto your hand will encourage the gerbil to feel comfortable. The best way to pick up Pet of the Week DOG NEEDS A HOUSE: Angie is a shy dog who needs a patient, loving home. For more animals available for adoption visit www.oakvillehumane.ca, call 905-845-1551 or visit the shelter located at 445 Cornwall Rd. the gerbil is using both hands. Corner the gerbil in the cage and scoop it up. If it runs away, grab a cup or tube. The gerbil's curiosity will naturally encourage it to enter, allowing you the opportunity to place your hand over the open end and lift it out of the cage. "The gerbil's social nature extends beyond companionship with others of its kind," said White. "With proper care, patience and training these entertaining creatures can become a delightful part of any household," she said. To find out more about gerbils as pets contact your veterinarian or the Oakville and District Humane Society at 905-845-1551. The shelter is at 445 Cornwall Rd. and cares for 5,000 animals annually, including gerbils. Yes! I want to join The Oakville and District Humane Society's monthly giving program and give hope today -- and every day. 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