by Fran Moriarty

Created on: March 02, 2009   Last Updated: March 03, 2009

When looking for a healthy sugar glider, It is important to check the reputation of the seller. It is also good to check the source of the glider. Sugar gliders can be purchased via the Internet but if at all possible it is highly recommended to purchase the glider locally. This way the animal can be observed first hand and the seller's establishment can be checked. Dirty smelly places breed disease. There are noises and smell that are a normal part of a any pet store but there are smells and noises that scream abuse or neglect. Be wary of any pet shop that does not seem right. Do not be timid about asking questions.

Observe the sugar glider up close. Note the location and size of the enclosure provided the glider. It should be a large cage in a pleasant area of the store. Gliders are naturally curious creatures and enjoy activity. If they are hidden in a back spot away from the activity or housed in a crammed cage, it might be wise to check elsewhere.

Ask questions. If the person helping does not know the answer, ask to speak with someone who does. Choose a glider that is about 2 months out of the pouch. It should be fully weaned. It should be active and inquisitive. Observe the glider. Ask to hold the animal. Usually gliders are curious and friendly but each glider is different. If it seems shy or defensive, ask the pet shop owner to handle it. Again ask questions. In fact, good pet shop owners will often ask questions of the purchaser to insure that the pet will be given a good home.

When examining the sugar glider check for the following:

1. smooth fur coat

2. bright eyes

3.pink moist nose

4. clean ears

5.pink gums

6.mucous membranes should be pink.

7.gliding membrane should display good elasticity

8.All four feet should display good grips

9.any apparent injuries or odd behavior

Glider should move about and be curious about the person looking at them. Sugar gliders are especially susceptible to paralysis of the hind limb, cataracts, and an inverted pouch. Watch the glider move. See if it drags its hind limbs, a sure indication of hind leg paralysis. Look into the glider's eye. If white spots are present, blindness and cataracts are indicated. Gliders are marsupials and like kangaroos, the gliders carry their young in a pouch. Check the pouch area. An inverted pouch will need a vet's care, not a good way to start out.

Sugar gliders will live up to 15 years in captivity. Pets become a part of the family. It is important to start with a healthy glider. The loss of a pet after caring for them and growing to love them can be traumatic. Gliders are social animals and need company. Humans can only provide so much companionship. It is strongly suggested to buy two gliders. Social contact with members of its own kind makes a healthy glider.

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