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Tiny Mammals
"Tiny Mammals" include Hamsters, Gerbils, and Mice.
Hamsters are very cute but they are frequently misunderstood. Although some of them can be friendly, many are standoffish and don't want to be handled. They require large, flat enclosures with deep bedding and lots of enrichment. They are solitary and don't live in groups.
Gerbils are busy critters that need lots of activities: burrowing, digging, chewing on cardboard. They tend to enjoy short periods of handling but then move on to the next activity. They can be kept in same-sex groups but bonding adult gerbils together can be risky as they are territorial.
Mice are curious and active, they can sometimes be hand-tamed but they are fast creatures. The females can live in large groups, intact males must be kept solitary.

Florence the Syrian hamster was found abandoned in a forest preserve bathroom and rescued by the local animal control. She is pretty friendly, takes snacks, and lets us pet her, but she makes angry squirrel sounds if you scoop her against her will.

Henri the mouse was relinquished because he was part of an accidental litter. He is a very exploratory guy and would climb to the top of Mt. Everest if he could!

Barbara the Syrian hamster was found abandoned in a forest preserve bathroom and rescued by the local animal control. She is relatively friendly and will approach people for a treat but can sometimes be nippy.

Francois the mouse was relinquished because he was part of an accidental litter. He usually just comes out at night or if he thinks you have good snacks!
1. Fill out an Adoption Application
Even if you're not sure yet which animal is best for you, this opens up the conversation and allows us to help you prepare for your new pet.
Our Adoption Process
2. Decide which animal you want to adopt
You might meet them at an event or make an appointment to come to the Sanctuary to meet your potential new forever friend.
3. Set up the enclosure, and send us a picture!
It is important to have everything ready when you bring the new pet home so they everyone is comfortable and happy.
4. Pay the adoption fee, sign the adoption contract
This is the official exchange of "ownership" of the pet from us to you. Adoption fees help offset the cost of the pre-adoption health care that each animal receives.
5. Take home your new best friend!
Now that the paperwork is done, you can enjoy your new pet and feel good about supporting a nonprofit animal rescue instead of a pet store. Now that you have adopted a pet, it makes room for another animal who needs help. Thank you!
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