Register FAQ Calendar Search Today's Posts Mark Forums Read
Navigation
Front Page
Forum
Gallery
Wiki

Ads by Google


Go Back   Hamster Central > Hamster Central Forum Topics > Hamster Chat

Notices

Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
Old 10-05-2021, 08:25 AM   #11
Lilafernim
Senior Hamster
 
Join Date: Sep 2021
Posts: 409
Default Re: Tuftyfluff hamsters still in business?

Quote:
Originally Posted by sushi_78 View Post
I got my current hamster from GBH Rescue in Beckenham. They recently had a big rescue of pregnant female Syrians so they have babies and adults available right now.
I’ve given them an email asking, only problem is again they’re over two hours away one way. I’ve just ask if they ever meet closer or drop off and see what they say. Thank you for the heads up though!
Lilafernim is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-05-2021, 09:14 AM   #12
Pebbles82
Hamster Antics
 
Join Date: Sep 2014
Posts: 23,533
Default Re: Tuftyfluff hamsters still in business?

Are you actually in London or just outside? I've travelled a couple of hours to pick up a hamster before . Although that was by train. If going by car then it helps to have two of you, so the one in the passenger seat can hold onto the pet carrier. I always hold the pet carrier on my knee (as a passenger) with a blanket over it so it's cosy and dark and helps block out traffic noise and flashing lights etc. They usually just go to sleep Driving, two hours is a bit far though - to go and come back again. For you rather than the hamster.
Pebbles82 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-05-2021, 09:25 AM   #13
Pebbles82
Hamster Antics
 
Join Date: Sep 2014
Posts: 23,533
Default Re: Tuftyfluff hamsters still in business?

Gives you time to think of an ideal set up for another hamster What cage have you got? If you're thinking of rescuing, I would probably try and get a younger hamster or baby this time, so you get chance to tame them. Have you considered a roborovski? Completely different species - they're tiny and often not easy to tame but can be fun to watch and chat to.

After our first Syrian died I was so affected, I have kept two hamsters ever since. I find it works for me. If one passes you still have another little furry friend to look after that needs you. Which might sound selfish but it gives two hamsters a home I found having a syrian and a robo was better than having two syrians - different attention needs at different times.

As well as preloved there is pets4homes. You need to register on there to read contact details I seem to remember but it doesn't cost anything. You need to be careful on these sites though as some people say they are breeders but NHC breeders are unlikely to be advertising on there. Better to look for ones that need rehoming after a child lost interest eg (which is often when the hamster is still very young!).
Pebbles82 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-05-2021, 09:34 AM   #14
Lilafernim
Senior Hamster
 
Join Date: Sep 2021
Posts: 409
Default Re: Tuftyfluff hamsters still in business?

Quote:
Originally Posted by Serendipity7000 View Post
Are you actually in London or just outside? I've travelled a couple of hours to pick up a hamster before . Although that was by train. If going by car then it helps to have two of you, so the one in the passenger seat can hold onto the pet carrier. I always hold the pet carrier on my knee (as a passenger) with a blanket over it so it's cosy and dark and helps block out traffic noise and flashing lights etc. They usually just go to sleep Driving, two hours is a bit far though - to go and come back again. For you rather than the hamster.
Yeah it would be four hour total though, two hour one way. And I wouldn’t mind the journey so much if I knew the one I was getting was exactly what I wanted.
I’d prefer a young female as I have always had more luck with females. And really to know that it’s been checked by a vet already.

I’m actually based in Colchester. So centre of London is an hour and a bit away, so anything further than that will obviously take longer.

So far the closest rescue one is 70 miles one way, and is a young male. I wouldn’t decline him, but my partner also is funny about how large the males balls grow which I do understand. And if I got one I’d want to make sure it is wholeheartedly loved by both of us.

One woman from pets4homes has responded now who is close to me, with females, young. But I think she bred them, and both parents were from pet shops which makes me believe she hasn’t bred before, maybe doesn’t know what to look for ect.

I am asking some questions, but I’m being cautious.
Lilafernim is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-05-2021, 09:34 AM   #15
Pebbles82
Hamster Antics
 
Join Date: Sep 2014
Posts: 23,533
Default Re: Tuftyfluff hamsters still in business?

ARC rescue have quite a few hamsters - Greenwich on Thames

Adopt a Small Animal – Animal Rescue and Care

Posted at the same time. I'd be careful. Breeders will tell you the parentage and colour genetics is important for good health when breeding hamsters.
Pebbles82 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-05-2021, 09:50 AM   #16
Lilafernim
Senior Hamster
 
Join Date: Sep 2021
Posts: 409
Default Re: Tuftyfluff hamsters still in business?

Quote:
Originally Posted by Serendipity7000 View Post
Gives you time to think of an ideal set up for another hamster What cage have you got? If you're thinking of rescuing, I would probably try and get a younger hamster or baby this time, so you get chance to tame them. Have you considered a roborovski? Completely different species - they're tiny and often not easy to tame but can be fun to watch and chat to.

After our first Syrian died I was so affected, I have kept two hamsters ever since. I find it works for me. If one passes you still have another little furry friend to look after that needs you. Which might sound selfish but it gives two hamsters a home I found having a syrian and a robo was better than having two syrians - different attention needs at different times.

As well as preloved there is pets4homes. You need to register on there to read contact details I seem to remember but it doesn't cost anything. You need to be careful on these sites though as some people say they are breeders but NHC breeders are unlikely to be advertising on there. Better to look for ones that need rehoming after a child lost interest eg (which is often when the hamster is still very young!).
I have had one Russian and two robovski hamsters in the past. The Russian I got on really well with but the two robovski hamsters were sort of a traumatised purchase after losing my Russian hamster.

I loved them all, I got on best with the Russian hamster which I think as a kid was an ideal pet. But after having a Syrian (this is probably going to sound weird!) but their size makes them substantial to hold. Also she has been the cuddliest out of all the hamsters I’ve owned which I loved. But maybe this was luck and due to differences in personalities.

The Russian and robovskis were much smaller and quicker, and I just fell in love with my Syrian as some nights she’d actually fall asleep on me and I could stroke her as she napped. I never really had that with the smaller species.

I couldn’t honestly tell you my cage! I’d show you but it’s all taken apart at the moment. I got it from emmaus (can’t spell it), only for ten pound and my intention was to replace it and I’ve been looking out ever since. Technically size wise it’s alright, but I’d like something with a bigger base for burrowing and larger. Also it has three floors so I ended up having to build loads of things to make it safe.

She had a hammock in the middle so if ever she fell it would never hurt, two ramps and a bridge and I took all the tubes out and made wooden platforms to fill the holes of where the pipes were so she had more floor space. I also made her a bed which took up an entire platform so the entire floor space was usable.

But I still look out for new ones just how I’ve modified it so much it makes it more suitable than ones sold online now.

It doesn’t sound selfish at all! I think my partner and my family would kill me if I had two though 😂 I very much love animals and would have zoo if I could. Even as I speak I have a baby dove on my head we rescued that fell out his nest (the sibling died from the fall, nest completely destroyed by wind and did wait for parents return but didn’t come back). Also have two snails in the kitchen with broken shells, and our cat (which stays out my room normally). So even now she’s passed away, like you I have much to focus on.
Lilafernim is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-05-2021, 09:55 AM   #17
Lilafernim
Senior Hamster
 
Join Date: Sep 2021
Posts: 409
Default Re: Tuftyfluff hamsters still in business?

Quote:
Originally Posted by Serendipity7000 View Post
ARC rescue have quite a few hamsters - Greenwich on Thames

Adopt a Small Animal – Animal Rescue and Care

Posted at the same time. I'd be careful. Breeders will tell you the parentage and colour genetics is important for good health when breeding hamsters.
That location is closer but on the website it says twickenham? I actually messaged them yesterday and they responded this morning, as again it would’ve been a four hour round trip I wondered if they’d meet me halfway.

Is there two of them? Greenwich is more manageable for me.

Also could you give me some tips to what to ask people on these websites and what to look out for please?
Lilafernim is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-05-2021, 10:02 AM   #18
Pebbles82
Hamster Antics
 
Join Date: Sep 2014
Posts: 23,533
Default Re: Tuftyfluff hamsters still in business?

Suffolk rodent rescue. No details of individual rodents online but you can contact them for details.

Suffolk Rodent Rescue – rescue means promise

We've always had boys On the plus side, they can be less maverick than females and aren't going to get pyometra (womb infection). Their testicles don't really show - except certain times when they are particularly warm, then they descend and protrude a bit. But not noticeable most of the time.
Pebbles82 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-05-2021, 10:12 AM   #19
Lilafernim
Senior Hamster
 
Join Date: Sep 2021
Posts: 409
Default Re: Tuftyfluff hamsters still in business?

Thank you!!!

I’ve given them a message so fingers crossed 🤞

I originally wanted a little boy, as I heard horror stories about the females especially on heat. But she was always such a sweetheart and so was my Russian dwarf.

Like I say, if distance, timing, health is all okay, or at least from an adoption centre so I can always get contact then I would get a boy. Just like I said, I can understand why my partner feels weird about them, and if I had one I’m certain he’d still love it the same.

To be fair it’s a good point about the infection, maybe in a way people avoid females though so maybe I’d be helping by taking a female. Although I can only seem to find males right now 😂 I do believe in fate partly, gender isn’t crucial to me and like I say if it’s the right one I think I’ll know.

Thank you for the link that’s the ideal distance, I really hope they have some!
Lilafernim is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 10-05-2021, 10:24 AM   #20
Pebbles82
Hamster Antics
 
Join Date: Sep 2014
Posts: 23,533
Default Re: Tuftyfluff hamsters still in business?

Sounds like getting a cage another cage would be a good idea Tall cages aren't really great for hamsters - and usually have smaller bases. Ideally something like the Hamster Heaven (80cm x 50cm and not too tall) - or larger. Maximum height about 45cm unless there is a full level. They do much better with more floor area and less height.

I know exactly what you mean about Syrians - I love them too - very handleable and yes they can be more cuddly or go to sleep on you.

You can often pick up second hand hamster heaven cages on gumtree or preloved as well.

It's taken me time to learn, but syrians do best with a few basics

1) A good sized floor area - at least 80cm by 50cm
2) A large house/nesting box at floor level (open underneath and sat on top of the substrate) - they like to bury hoards under their nest and it enables them to have normal habits like burying hoards under their nest or burrowing down a bit
3) A shelf or platform - they seem to like going on or under a shelf and it's a good place to put heavier items so they don't sink
4) At least 4 to 6" deep substrate
5) Rat sized toys and tunnels ideally (pringles tubes are good)
6) A 28cm syrian sized wheel

My first hamster was in a rotostak thing many years ago. I bought another rotostak when we got our Syrian about 7 years ago (without doing any research) and realised it was totally unsuitable. Our hamster got quite large and got stuck in the tubes and there was hardly any ventilation. So I googled and kept coming across this forum. Upgraded him to a hamster heaven sized cage and it made a huge difference - you could almost see him smile and his behaviour was much more confident. And he loved the bigger wheel.

Since then I've learned that the basics listed above are what really work for them. Most commercial cages are totally unsuitable. The tall ones have injury risks from falling (many hamsters end up injured that way) and the hamsters end up with funny habits due to not being able to pee at ground level if their house is too high - or they block up tubes.

One of the other advantages of the above is that although it takes a lot of substrate initially, you end up using a lot less in the long run - because it's not necessary to do big clean outs. The hamsters develop natural habits and the cage stays clean and dry - apart from their pee area (and sometimes the wheel). So most of us on here recommend "spot cleaning" - ie replacing the odd handful of substrate now and then if necessary. And not doing big clean outs. You can easily go 2 or 3 months with spot cleaning and emptying a litter tray weekly or bi weekly. And then only do partial cleans - eg when doing the substrate, don't clean anything else at the same time - do the wheel anotehr week and any other items another week again.

That way something always smells familiar and they don't get stressed by everything changing at once. I also replace about a third of the old substrate and spread it on top of the new so it smells familiar (the clean third - usually from the bottom of the cage).

A litter tray works wonders - they will use it if put in their pee corner/area.

Anyway over the years I've found it helps to really get a cage set up working before getting another hamster. They settle quicker.

The main thing with the partial cleaning is to avoid stress for the hamster - they do find cleanouts stressful - particularly if the nest or hoard is removed - and stress leads to them developing illnesses. I "prune" the hoard when I eventually do a substrate clean, as it can get too large and some of the dried food (although it keeps well hoarded) doesn't want to be around too long. It's only if the nest or hoard are pee'd on they need completely removing - and even then it's a good idea to leave a little bit of the old hoard or nest behind - and add new food to replace the hoard (in the same place) or they can get quite stressed about that as well.

With the strips of toilet paper for nesting, the nest stays clean and dry - you put out more now and then and they take it and refurbish the nest. Some of ours have actually cleaned out their own nest at times! If left. I've never needed to remove a nest unless pee'd in (which baby hamsters do sometimes but tend to grow out of it quickly). I've come down and found a pile of substrate at the cage door and half the substrate missing from the middle of the cage. So they've chucked out some stuff and dragged some new stuff in!

Our rescue syrian was the tidiest one! He was incredibly house proud (I used to say he was institutionalised lol). His pee corner was well away from his house and very neat.

Anyway. If you definitely want a syrian then thinking about a cage in advance would be a good idea. There are also lots of ideas for set ups on here on the "lets see your cages" thread. Some are huge! Most are average suitable set ups.

The Alaska cage used to be the basic, economical one recommended but it's not available since the pandemic.
Pebbles82 is offline   Reply With Quote
Reply

Tags
ago, days, facebook, hamsters, tuftyfluff

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off

Forum Jump

Powered by vBulletin®
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.
Search Engine Optimisation provided by DragonByte SEO v2.0.43 (Pro) - vBulletin Mods & Addons Copyright © 2024 DragonByte Technologies Ltd.
Copyright © 2003-2022, Hobby Solutions
All times are GMT -7. The time now is 06:25 AM.