In Reply to: I want one!! posted by Leslie on June 19, 1999 at 13:51:38:

Leslie, You say you have talked with 3 friends and you love the bond they have with theirs.. Can I also suggest that you find 3 people that have NOT gotten that bond as well. The idea of research is to find out all sides, the Bad as well as the good. There are many downsides to owning a glider that many times age and lifestyle may interfere with. They live 15 years, and that commitment is for that long. When you want something real bad, it is easy to overlook the time, and patience that is required for that kind of commitment. To force yourself to stay up when you are dog tired to allow your gliders the playtime they want and need. To not tire of it after the newness wears off. To think your lifestyle won't change and still be able to accomadate the needs of the glider. Ask yourself, if you are ready for the responsibility of an infant child that has the personality of a rebellous teenager. What about a vet in your area? Is there one that is "Glider knowledgable" To prepare your room or home and not just get it and think you will get around to it after it is there. Ask yourself many many questions , and you have to be honest with yourself..after your friends have long gone and it is just you and your glider, will the drive still be there to give your glider the best possible home. Ask yourself If you are able to take the bite of one if necessary. The possibility may exist that you don't get a sweet, calm, glider that loves you right off the bat. There are certain downsides that come with a glider, Many people have put out excellent info rearding the REAL facts about gliders. Some gliders may have all the downsides , some only a few. You must know what to expect. If you expect the worst then when it doesn't have some of the downsides, that is that much less you have to worry about. Are you REALLY prepared for this? Find a untamed glider, spend time with it, see what you still think. I have also some very sweet loving gliders, but they take work, lots of hard work, patience and sometimes much pain to get them to that point.

• Jane's Downsides Link

Follow Ups: