Hello all!

I have been in love with the idea of getting a pet sugar glider since the first time I met one when I was in the second grade. I've kept up with the forum, but between my own finances and life with my mother's strict "No Smelly Animals" policy it's never been feasible for me to have my own gliders. Eventually I was able to talk her into a pet hedgehog who kept me company for 4 years before crossing the rainbow bridge from cancer. During those 4 years I loved everything about small exotics, but gliders still seemed to be a stretch. I have now been out on my own a while, but the upstart cost for two joeys is a little steep for a single income public school teacher.

However, it seems fate had other plans.

Feeling sad after helping my hedgehog cross the rainbow bridge, I ducked into a local exotics shop hoping to find some fun things for my scaled friends. Instead, I found myself in an exotics shop that not only stocks supplies, but also specializes in rescues and rehomes. It wasn't long before I noticed the two little glider boys in their set up and decided that this had to be the right time. I know that gliders are the cutest face, but can kind of be jerks until you've gained their trust, which can take longer with older gliders. Between my hedgehog and my western hognose snakes, I am well familiar with animals that have some attitude.

I am now the proud parent of two male gray gliders, between 1 or 2 years old. (I think that they are siblings, but I can't be sure.)

Having had my toe in the glider world for 10+ years, I know a few things about glider care and behavior. Lots of toys, lots of bonding, lots of patience. But, I want to be sure that I'm doing this right and I have a few questions for the colony:

- I've ordered CritterLove Glider Complete and the accompanying salad for them. I know every glider is different, but how much do you recommend starting them with?
- What are some things I should be looking out for "normal" behavior wise? I don't know anything about their history, aside from them being surrendered by someone who could no longer care for them. (I intend to take them to my exotic vet soon, but I want them to be a little bit more at ease than they are now.)
- Neutering? Yay or nay?
- I've noticed that the larger one eats first, and the smaller one hangs back and waits to join. Occasional taking away of food with both parties as the culprit, but after the waiting period they both eat out of the bowl together fine. Typical social behavior or something I should be worried about?

Thanks to everyone in advance for their help, and I will definitely post pics as soon as I have the chance. (Name suggestions welcome!)

Ally

First, Welcome to GliderCENTRAL!