RABBITS
It’s easy to fal
l in love with a bunny’s cute face, twitching nose and fluffy tail instantly. This is why so many people adopt one straight away, without really considering the demands of rabbit care. Rabbits truly are great pets, but before you welcome one into your family, there a lot of things to consider first! Make sure you are ready for the commitment and find out what you need to do to properly care for your rabbit. Read more information from Care.com
Additional information on Petfinder.com, My House Rabbit and House Rabbit Society
Also facebook group Vancouver Island House Rabbits
GUINEA PIGS
Guinea pigs are furry, tailless pets that grow up to be about three pounds. These little guys are social and they thrive on interaction. They enjoy having a companion (just choose one of the same gender) and they can become very attached to their humans. Read more information from PetSmart.ca and 12 Guinea Pig Care Mistakes And No-Nos
FERRETS
While ferrets are not for everyone, they can make great pets for the right owner. They are affectionate and bond with their owners, quiet for a large part of the day, and there are few pets as playful as ferrets. Spruce Pets
HAMSTERS
There are several breeds of hamsters but the Syrian or Teddy Bear hamster is generally the most popular. Hamsters can be great pets for children, they are gentle, cute and reasonably easy to take care of. But if you are considering adopting one, there are a few things you should be aware of.
Hamsters are lone animals, they could fight if there is more than one in a cage. They need wood or something to chew on as their teeth grow continually and would injure themselves without chewing them down.
They are nocturnal animals so they like to sleep during the day and are active at night, they have lots of energy and love to run on exercise wheels. Hamsters have poor eyesight and good hearing but they could bite if they are startled.
For more information visit: RSPCA Hamster Care Guide, BCSPCA – Hamster Care Guide or The Hamster House
RATS & MICE
It has been said that in the rodent pet world, mice are like cats and rat are like dogs. Mice are independent creatures and don’t like being handled too much. Rats are intelligent and more social, they can be trained to do tricks – check here for a video. For more information visit Mice Care or Rat Care Guide
Anyone that has an interest in rats or mice can be a member of the American Fancy Rat & Mouse Association
GERBILS
Gerbils are cute, active, intelligent and sociable animals. They are often ‘first pets’ for children but they do need to be cared for responsibly. Gerbils are active during the day and can often be found digging tunnels in their bedding. They can live up to 3-4 years if well cared for, and they love to explore. For more information on Gerbils visit: BC SPCA Gerbil care guide
SUGAR GLIDERS
Information on Sugar GlidersHEDGEHOGS
Hedgehogs are relatively easy pets to look after, but still require lots of attention and care. Find information at The Spruce Pets
Vancouver Island Reptile EnthusiastsBIRDS
FEATHERS – Friends for Ethical Avian Treatment, Homes, Education, Resources and Support
Avian and Exotic
Animal care sheets for unusual pets
An Introduction to Pet Tortoises