Hamster Transport

[hello_hamster]

Hello!
I've recently decided to adopt a new hamster!
I plan on visiting the PetSmart closest to me, which has a Winter White up for adoption, yet it is still far enough that I have to take one or two taxis. I know PetSmart provides you with a small cardboard carrier, but I have a bigger one as well. Now I'm faced with two problems. Will it be too stressful to transport a hamster that far, as the route is quite noisy? And if I end up taking that route, should I use the slighty smaller PetSmart carrier? It might be a better idea, as it's darker and a bit more calming, possibly. I also have a 612 sq. in. cage set up, so will that reduce some stress upon arrival?

[cypher]

I wouldn't transport a hamster in a cardboard box, they can chew their way out! I always take a proper plastic hamster carrier when I go to pick mine up & put plenty of substrate in so they can burrow down & feel more secure.
I wouldn't worry about the distance too much if you do that, they usually settle down & will often just go to sleep.

[Pebbles82]

What cypher said. Use your pet carrier, put loads of substrate in it and a pile of torn up strips of plain white toilet paper, and a little house (if you can) or a cut up tissue box to make a house type shelter. Scatter some hamster mix in it and put a piece of cucumber in. Your hammy will enjoy finding the food and will burrow down and hide. I sometimes take a fleece blanket to put over the pet carrier so it's darker inside, when the carrier is on my knee in the car. But just watch for chewing! They can chew it through the holes if inclined to.