Bonding with a Sugar glider

Handle young joeys for at least 30 minutes 3-4 times a day (once their eyes are opened).

Adult gliders can take some time to bond with their new owners. Bonding pouches used for a few hours a day can help. You can view a selection of bonding pouches in our 'Bonding Pouch Department'. Another useful bonding technique is to wear a t-shirt with a long sleeve button up t-shirt over it. You will place the glider on the inside of the long-sleeved shirt. Make sure to tie or tuck in the bottom of the shirt so the glider can not escape. Just walk around the house doing regular chores and speaking softly to the glider.

A great trusting game you can play with your gliders is to offer treats several times a day, everyday on a set schedule. The best advice offered is to be gentle, consist in everything you do, patient, and loving. If by chance you have a biting/aggressive glider use the treat trick.

Do not pull away if the glider bites. They will try to tame you with their routine. Remember if you allow your glider to train you they will do so. It has always been... who will break whom in first.

A rebellious glider just needs alot of TLC and patience. These little guys can sense your feelings. Do not get too worried if the glider takes more time to bond- just know in the end they will be the best they can be, and be your best buddy. Moving slowly around the glider works well also. They will not get jumpy if you do not get jumpy. Rub a paper towel on your face and neck and include it in the pouch. This will give them your scent. Just remember that time is what it is all about. You must remember the little joey is experiencing a new home, new smells, no more mom or dad, and lots of new noises.

To remove your Glider from it's cage, wait till the glider is in his/her pouch and take the whole pouch out of the cage. Try not to force the bonding. Time is what you and your glider need. Do not chase your Glider around the cage, this will make it harder to bond and create a relationship with your new pet.