In Reply to: personality posted by Mandy on May 11, 1999 at 14:43:09:

Hi Mandy,

First of all, I want to commend you on your research. Because of the amount of time you have obviously spent reading about Sugar Gliders, I think that you would make a great sg mommy.

Second, in regards to your bonding question: each glider does have a unique personality, as does a cat or a dog, however, there are still some of the same basic qualities. The bond between you and your glider will be stronger depending on the amount of time you spend with it. People carry their pets around as part of the bonding process, and then eventually as part of the everyday companionship. The younger your glider the better possibility of a strong bond. The sg recognizes you by your scent. It is important that when you first get the baby, use one of your shirt's or a pair of socks that you have worn for his/her bedding material. When you carry it around with you during the day, have it in a "draw-string" pouch around your neck. Wear it under your shirt so that your glider will be close to your skin and so he can familiarize himself with your voice. Hand feed him sweet fruits so that he associates you with pleasant things.

I promise you that if you give your glider enough attention, nurturing and love, he will reciprocate 110%. As you may have read, at least 2 hours/day should be spent with your pet. That 2 hours does not have to consist of hard core playing, it can be time spent in your pocket during the day, or whatever. A Sugar Glider can possibly die of lonliness if neglected. It is a big responsibility, much bigger than that of a cat or dog (and they are a big one, dogs especially).

So, keep up the good work! Please come back to this sight if you have any other questions. There are some very good people on this board who care deeply about their pets and have great advice/stories to share.

Good luck with your decision,
Cheri and Gizmo ~Q>

: I have been reading about Sugar Gliders for weeks, bought the books, checked out most of the websites, etc. I love everything that I have heard and read, but it is hard, without having a Sugar, to know what I am in for personality wise.
: If you think about getting a dog, for example, most will either stick around and love on you/play fetch or follow their noses away...Guinea pigs are almost always shy to the touch..Cats either love you and rule your life or cannot care less about you and rule your life:) but in thinking of getting one, you basically know what you are in for:)
: In reading about Sugar Gliders it has been either they will love you (staying in your pocket or on your shoulder going everywhere with you) or they will be in their cage, shying away from you...What does it mean for the animal to truly bond with you? (I know this is a varying case)
: but is it only to the extent of the animal coming back to you (landing on you for a moment for food and taking off again) or can it be deeper than this? (like a dog or a cat with homing capabilities) :) is there anything it can be compared to?:)
: thanks for any help you can lend-
: Mandy

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