Now that we have metioned Lucky's Wonder of Chinchillas, one of our co-owners, Jamie Glaser, received a letter from a young would-be chinchilla owner that was very anxious to adopt one of these soft, fluffy wonders. His answer to her is so good and down to earth, that we decided to make it an introduction to this care website. Here it is:
Hi,
Well, first I have to tell you when you rescue an animal you are doing an amazing thing. Unfortunately, especially with chinchillas, there are SO many in need, so many who have been misunderstood and abused.
First, if you are really lucky, your chinchillas, with the proper care, can live a very long time; 20 years or even more, though the average is less. Are you prepared to take them to college , stuff like that? Are your parents aware that they may have to love them while you are living your life and dreams?
Chinchillas, as you probably know, are not like dogs or cats..they are like little aliens.
They often run the other way when you call them. They are so soft and cute , but so many can frustrate you cause they dont like to be handled for too long.
All chinchilla people LOVE the challenge of getting close to their furries.
Are you prepared to clean cages, poopies, and all the rest?
Do you have an exotic vet nearby? If you haven't, call around and find out where a good exotic vet is..this is very important.
Rescue animals sometimes have been not only abused physically, but also nutritionally. You really need to put some funds somewhere in case of emergency.
You may have seen PEDRO, my chinchilla. I rescued him for 60 dollars, but the vet bills were more than 1,000 dollars. He was so sick ...
It was amazing that he even lived through the first day. Unfortunately, he died this last year on my birthday and I miss him so.
Ok..now you've heard a bunch of stuff that isn't meant to discourage you..but it is reality.
Chinchillas are TRULY amazing social animals. The fact that you are hopefully adopting a neutered male and female already shows me that you are responsible and have studied. One of the reasons why so many sick chinchillas are out there is cause people have housed males and females together. The babies have been genetically messed up. As much as I hate the chinchilla ranchers and their business, I am trying to begin work to speak to them about producing chinchillas as pets. They know the science of breeding healthy chinchillas.
Feel welcome to write and ask any questions you may have and I'll be glad to respond.
Also, our forum, LUCKYS WONDER OF CHINCHILLAS is free and filled with caring, fun, and knowledgeable people. Ask your parents if they will help you join. We protect our members under 18 years old and there are certain things you can't do..
like PM members and post pictures of yourself...but you can certainly become a valued and active member. We are a rescue -friendly forum and we do not talk about breeding.
Thanks for your email
and keep in touch
Jamie
You can show your parents my website too
