In Reply to: please read this its really urgent!!!:(answer asap!!! posted by celia on November 25, 1999 at 11:50:19:

Celia, Since you said this was urgent, that means that you are seriously considering getting a glider very quick, and that means with out researching first. So since you asked let me help you in a quick search..
1. DISEASES- Yes they do get sick, and there is a very small window between symptoms and death. Hind Leg Paralsys type symptoms are deadly, they can be caused from many things, and some that can be diagnosed. If they get a cold, they can die, They can die of loneliness, depression, a broken bone, stress, a poor diet, an owner that hasn't thought to "gliderproof". Many gliders die needlessly every year, due to lack of researching them. Having a GLIDER KNOWLEDGABLE vet that will be available at ALL hours is a neccessity.
2. How long do they live- They CAN live upto 15 years, again with the proper research, and the constant learning. They are fairly new to the public here in the states, and there is so much more we all need to learn. Some gliders die at 2 years others live upto 15, but again many deaths can not be diagnosed. Again the importance of haveing a vet that is familiar with the diseases of gliders.
3. are they wild? do we recommend them?- Now there is a million dollar question, those that have gliders, will stress the importance of research, as Kathe said, to also have someone that KNOWS gliders as a good resource. I persoanlly don't suggest them for anyone under 18 that doesn't have the back up of their parents. The vet bills can be astromical, sometimes as high as 400.00, they are nocturnal, so they are more active during the day. Being willing to earn their trust, and taking the time that is needed. I would only suggest a glider to someone who is dedicated to them (again the research), it is a big responsibility. They may bite or crab, lunge at you. Their teeth are very sharp, designed to pierce tree branches, so your hand or arm is no problem. This process can take months, sometimes not at all. Depending on the time you are willing to put into it. There is a page I and many others have put together for new and want to be new owners, read each section of the link below.
If it sounds like I don't want people to have gliders, that isn't the case, but we do want them to know what to expect. These are very cute animals, but they are also very unique, with very unique needs. Please research them first..
I have a very sweet and bonded glider, however; it took me a long time to get to the point I am at now. It took patience, trust, lots of time and lots of non stop research. In fact we still research..

• Bourbon's Sugar Glider Info

Follow Ups:

• Correction to above post.. Bourbon 20:56:34 11/25/99 (0)