how to hold a winter white

[Ness]

how would you hold a winter white to check the stomach area? Mine might have a cut or something round there (I think I caught a glimpse of something like that) I've tried a few different ways and can't keep him still long enough to check.

I just want to be sure it's not too bad if there is anything there.

[mollldoll]

this is how i would hold scribbles to see her tummy

..i wasent sure how to describe it so i took a quick video

http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v715/ ... Video1.flv

[Ness]

I wish mine would be like that, I've tried it, but maybe I'm not putting my fingers under him properly. I'll have another go, thanks

[mollldoll]

hmm maybe scribbles is calm - she is certanaly calmer than any of my other hamsters


maybe you'll just have to be firm with him if its important that you have a look - good luck though i hope you can get a good look soon

ive used a clear bottomed holder or tank to have a look under a hammy before - perhaps that would work?

[souffle]

That is a good idea Molldoll. Use a clear tub or a glass sheet, even a glass table then get under it with a torch while someone else minds the hammy.You may be seeing the ventral scent gland which can look like a sort of scab on the 'tummy button' area. If you urgently need to check a dwarf the only way really is to scruff them quickly, check then put them straight back down in the cage before they get a chance to be mad at you. It looks harsh but it does not hurt as long as you get a good bit of scruff and are quick.

[Bunsey]

i had this trouble. they roll up like hedgehogs. All my 3 have got scent patch scabs. i was so worried at first, but it's normal