Small Animal Adoption

Dogs and cats are not the only adoptable pets at the Monadnock Humane Society. Pet adoption also includes rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, rats, mice and gerbils. Although small animals require different types of care, adopting one provides many of the same rewards and benefits as a cat or dog. Often times we have rabbits, ferrets, guinea pigs, rats, hamsters, gerbils, mice, and even the occasional chinchilla, degu or feathered friend as residents - all awaiting their forever homes!

Should you adopt a small animal?

 

Adopting a so called "pocket pet" can be great! Small animal pets can be docile, tame and even eager to learn new tricks.  They are also interesting to observe in their habitats or under close supervision out of their living quarters.  Small animals have special care requirements specific to their species and should not be mistaken as "starter pets".  Be sure to brush up on your small animal skills and learn about their specific care needs and behaviors before making one of these little guys a part of your family. MHS staff are happy to provide you with information and resources that are sure to help you make the best match with a new "mini" furry family member.

 

Check out what small animals we have available here.

 

The following links will help you learn more about small animal needs and behaviors: 

Rabbits: www.rabbit.org,  http://www.ddfl.org/behavior/rabbit_behav.pdf, and/or The House Rabbit Handbook, by Marinell Harriman (available online through Amazon.com or Drollery Press.)

Rats:  http://www.ratbehavior.org/WhatIsMyRatDoingFAQ.htm

Mice:  http://.rmca.org/Resources/mousefaq.htm

Hamsters:  http://www.petco.com/Content/Article/30/20/801/Natural-Hamster-Behavior.aspx

Gerbils:  http://exoticpets.about.com/cs/gerbils/a/gerbilbehavior.htm