SouthEast Sugar Gliders Rescue and Sanctuary does not view environmental enrichment as an option. We feel that it is as necessary to maintaining our animals’ optimal health as are proper diet and veterinary care. Each animal has a unique personality with likes and dislikes, and we tailor our program to accommodate those. Simply placing a toy in a cage does not constitute enrichment. In our experience, sugar gliders that are given ample and proper enrichment choices have a reduced level of stress and fewer incidences of illness and behavior issues. Gliders are intelligent and inquisitive creatures that benefit from a variety of toys. There are two considerations in choosing these items: safety and use. Any items accessible to your gliders must be non-toxic and free of physical dangers. Once those specifications are satisfied, it's time to observe your gliders to see what types of toys they most enjoy. Regularly change out toys and rearrange the placement of enrichment items in the cage to provide a continually challenging environment. Remember, an unused toy is simply wasted space. With the many enrichment options available, you'll be sure to find something to keep each of your gliders active.
Most sugar glider owner
purchase their first toys from local pet
supply stores. While there are some good
options available there, they are not designed specifically for sugar gliders. We recommend that owners either purchase from vendors who create toys designed for gliders or that they make their own. While it's not as simple as just driving to your local pet store and it will be more expensive than commercial pet products, the toys will be better suited to the unique nature of the glider. As previously mentioned, proper enrichment will
reduce the chance of illness which means healthier gliders and lower vet bills.
Making toys for your gliders can be a fun experience. Again, always keep safety in mind as you create items for them, but let your creativity flow. You can create themed cages or just mismatch designs and colors. It's all up to you. Your gliders will enjoy trying out your new creations.
Some common items used in toy making can be ordered from online bird supply vendors, local general purpose stores, craft stores and Amazon.com.
©2010-2011 SouthEast Companion Animal Rescue & Education Services, Inc. All rights reserved.
For more toy safety tips, please visit SouthEast Sugar Gliders
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Environmental Enrichment
Necessity...Not Luxury
100% of the purchase price goes to the care of animals in our sanctuary.
