Where to get gerbils from?

[mrsbabookaloo]

Hi, I've read a lot of threads about gerbils vs hamsters, and the right way to care for gerbils, but I seem to remember someone saying you shouldn't get them from a pet shop. I can't find the thread now.

So, presumably it has something to do with better welfare that I shouldn't get them from a pet shop, but where do I get them from otherwise?

I'm going to get a book, and I'll get a big gerbilarium. Any other tips for an absolute beginner?

Thanks

A local small rescue. A lot of the big ones do cats or dogs or both but little ones tend to have a lot wider variety. If you happen to be in the North East I know a rescue that would bite your hand off if you offered to take some gerbils

We adopted a gerbil from Pets At Home a few years ago; they frequently have small rodents for adoption.

When j was a child I had lots of gerbils, mainly from a pair a males!!!

As for tips, mine loved chewing toilet roll insides and thick twigs, tearing tissue paper into bedding and being handled lots. A little vegetation and sunflower seeds as occasional treats and fresh water every day.

They are great pets but mind their teeth.

So sorry - I started this thread and forgot to check back! Thanks for replies. I'm in London, and not sure where to look to adopt gerbils rather than buying from a pet shop: I've googled and not got anywhere! Any more ideas?

You could try gumtree I think a lot of people accidentally end up with baby gerbils