----------
> From: ANDREA SPIEGLE <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
> To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> Subject: newbie
> Date: 29 July 2000 19:48
>
> : I've been thinking a lot lately of getting gerbils
> again, I remember them as being wonderful little critters. I have a
> slight problem though, when I was a kid I also had several not-so-nice
> hamsters and was bitten a few too many times. Now I sort of have a
> left-over childhood fear, I guess you could call it, of being bitten. I
> know gerbils are usually very friendly and not quick to bite, but I was
> wondering if anyone had any tips to help me get over this ridiculous
> nervousness. Thanks from the newbie!
Gerbils generally do not bite unless they are badly mishandled. They can
give a warning nip if squeezed by a child, but it is very rare for them to
draw blood. However, if you are nervous around them, then the gerbils will
pick up on this anxiety. They are unlikely to bite, but may be less keen
for you to pick them up and run away from you.
I think it is very important that you get a pair of gerbils from an
experienced breeder. If you do, they will be used to being handled when
you get them. The breeder should be happy to show you how to handle them
safely. Gerbils from pet stores may have had little handling apart from
fingers poking at them. Also I would opt for a pair of males. Males tend
to be more laid back than females. This difference is not as marked as it
is in some other rodents e.g. rats, but it is there. You could also
consider acquiring an older pair of gerbils. Aggressive and excitable
behaviour seems to be at its worst in young adults. By the time they reach
about 9 months, they calm down a lot.
Hope this helps
Sue
