Pet hamsters are prone to illnesses like amyloidosis (kidney disease) and congestive heart failure. The appeal of hamsters as pets for young people is that they dont live long and are inexpensive. Of course, some issues arent possible to overcome. Due to an average lifespan of around two years and a low asking price at nationwide pet stores, the demand for rescue hamsters is limited, especially as they age. While thoroughly researched and meticulously checked, the content on Pet Educate does not constitute, nor should replace any pet medical advice. These factors can come into play when determining the cost of getting a sick hamster put down. Hamsters are not aggressive pets but if they are scared or startled they may bite. Thats because they dont want to be responsible to a future owner if a hamster dies soon after it leaves the store or for any health conditions that occur once the hamster goes to its new home. Greens are a good option to offer daily; parsley, kale, romaine, peas, and squash are all good options. Any fees you are charged may be donated to the animal shelter where the animal was taken in for adoption. During the first 48 hours of having a new hamster at home, it is best to simply do regular visual checks on your hamster without disturbing them. Youll need to have your purchase receipt, and you may be asked to fill out a return form. You can feed your pet hamster combinations of rat blocks (rodent chow) and seed mix or hamster pellets. And with new content being added every day, there's always something new to discover. You may bring your hamster to a Petco store to be treated in the wellness room if it becomes unwell during the first 30 days of its purchase. Easy, ask the pet store! There are various options, including: See if someone you know and trust would be willing to take the hamster from you. -Other supplies: $5-$10. We often link to other websites, but we can't be responsible for their content. These mixes usually contain hay, pellets, and dried vegetables. Odds are they will put the hamster in a little cage and sell it to someone else. Trying to hold and play with an ill or injured hamster can create stress that slows down healing. Hamsters are one of the most popular pet options for both children and adults. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. can you return a hamster to pets at home. Hamsters can be humanely euthanized at home via exposure to high concentrations of carbon dioxide. Weve all been there. Hamsters are popular pets for children and adults alike. Items purchased in-store can be returned with a receipt within 60 days for a full refund in the original form of tender. Questions? You could sell the hamster online, but ensure its going to a good home with a suitable cage setup. If you return it dead within 30 days well give you a refund or exchange and dispose of it for you. As with any pet, owning a hamster requires time, effort, and money. Depending on the height of the fall, the broken neck can be so severe that it ends up killing the hamster. Do hamsters get sick? However, pet stores must sell hamsters old enough to go to a new home., Hamster ownership is a greater commitment than many people realize. Even if you dont want the hamster anymore, you should still ensure it doesnt come to any harm. Special balls can also be purchased to allow a hamster to run around safely outside its cage; cute houses and other climbable options are available to provide your hamster with ample exercise. Free-roaming allows your hamster to have sufficient exercise and explore spaces other than its own cage. Here are some peer-to-peer trading websites on the internet: Other social media apps, such as Twitter, may not identify discussions about selling pets between users. This will prevent their teeth from overgrowing. Charitable donations to shelters may be made in exchange for surrendering your pet. Additional methods include cervical dislocation and even Tylenol overdose. This should reduce the whole familys grief and speed up closure when the pet rodent is finally gone. Dwarf hamsters, on the other hand, can live with others if theyre introduced at a young age. If you cannot care for the hamster or find it a new home, your last resort should be euthanasia by a veterinarian. A hamster can learn to enjoy being gently held and interacted with, but if it is left unhandled for long periods of time, it may be more likely to bite the next time you want to play. It is best to keep the temperature between 68 and 79 degrees Fahrenheit and the humidity between 30 and 70%. It will only be possible to leave your hamster alone for a month if you have somebody come and check up on your hamster, replace their food, clean their cage and provide access to fresh water. Ready to get the latest from Bankovia? If a hamster stays at the store more than 6 months it would either be transferred to a new location or adopted out (free). Hopefully, I can share my experiences with everyone. Please review the following options and decide what is best for you and your hamster. Not all businesses and charities can take on hamsters, so check that theyll accept your hamster and that the shelter operates a no-kill policy. If youre not happy with your purchase and want to know if you can return your hamster, this article is for you. Fish tanks aren't good options for hamsters either, since they lack proper ventilation. Does Petco accept sick hamsters for return? He's a lifelong expat who has lived in the Philippines, Mexico, Thailand, and Colombia. Males tend to outlive females, but their lifespan remains short. Your sweetheart will be surprised by your gift! The hamster is now store property, but it has to be that way in order to treat him. In that case, if for some reason you could not keep that dog/cat the rescue would want to be informed so they could take the animal back and find a ne. While doing so you can notice when they start acting differently. Also, personal circumstances can change, meaning you can no longer care for the hamster. As long as you follow the steps below, a successful outcome is likely. What Is The Difference Between Bonding And HardWall. They have certain needs that simply must be met. Vets offer the quickest and most pain-free ways to put down sick pets but be prepared to sign a form of consent and pay the necessary charges before the procedure starts. Will pet stores take back previously purchased animals such as snakes or hamsters? I've looked after adorable hamsters for more than 10 years. Moving from a breeder or supplier to a store can be a stressful period for baby hamsters, and they will often get sick from it. They are usually between six and eight weeks if you bought them from the normal area rather than adoption. Bedding also differs from outdoor terrain, preventing hamsters from burrowing for warmth and security. Prepare your home. Taking in an unwanted hamster that is also ill may create some difficulties because of the potential health dangers to other animals, such as other hamsters. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Some stores will consider the return an adoption and an act of mercy. You should provide your hamster with enough material to gnaw on. Why Is Your Zucchini Plant Stem Splitting? Avoid opening the chamber to confirm whether the hamster is dead. As hamsters have short lifespans, few traders will pay for an adult. They are safe and healthy for them to enjoy too. How much room Petco has at any one moment determines whether or not it will accept an unwanted hamster back. If your hamster keeps climbing the walls of its cage and escaping, get a glass habitat that cant be easily ascended and keep the roof securely in place. Yes. The proper daily care of your hamster can improve its lifespan. A short weekend away or a family event can mean that we need to leave our hamster alone. A bored hamster can quickly become a destructive hamster. Instead of getting rid of it, composting can help boost your backyard gardening efforts by serving as an organic fertilizer. Times where leaving your hamster alone in a quiet place is a good idea: Your new hamster needs quiet alone time to adjust to its new cage and routine. The most common hamster species is the Syrian, also known as the golden hamster. Hamsters are quite small in size and other home animals may see them as prey. A hamster with dental issues may stop eating. Will Petco take unwanted pets? Unwanted hamsters remain in the centers until they find a home. Hamster crematoriums may also charge up to $800 for those who prefer cremation. Many of these organizations have programs in place specifically for small pets like hamsters, and they may be able to take your pet in and find it a new home. Facebook decides whether a profile belongs to a business or an individual. Take your hamster to a local animal shelter or rescue organization. You should handle a sick hamster with care since some of the bacteria strains can spread to people. But if that is not viable due to accessibility or financial reasons , the method above is as painless as it comes in DIY hamster euthanasia. Litter train your pet hamster to keep everything neat. Check all plastic parts for wear and tear, position toys in a way that makes it difficult for the hamster to reach the cage lid, and consider securing your lid with extra weight or clamps. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Most cities have pet crematoriums you can take the little pets body after conducting at-home euthanasia. Unfortunately, there are times when it is the right thing to do. This means that the hamster is both sexually mature, and also has reached, or is very close to, its full length. You buy a hamster on a whim, thinking it will be a fun and low-maintenance pet. Some petcos will only do the refund/exchange for dead fish if you also bring in a seperate water sample and the sample tests come back normal. However, youll have to take the body disposal process into your own hands after DIY hamster euthanasia. Editor, Marcus Herbert. Most items can be returned through any one of these options: 1. The first thing you should do is reach out to your local humane society or animal shelter. C/O Pet Educate4736 Royal Ave PMB 109160Eugene, OR 97402United States. Another reason pet stores rarely take in unwanted hamsters is that they tend to stop selling them at 12 weeks old. After all, hamsters originate from wild habitats, and domesticated pets are ill-equipped to survive. The significant role played by bitcoin for businesses! A hamster should not be left alone for more than 48 hours. You may also have to consider that smaller hamster breeds have different cage needs than the larger Syrian varieties, since cage wire spacing can determine whether or not a hamster is able to escape. You should always observe your hamsters closely. Some vets offer body disposal services at a fee so that can make the whole process a bit easy after getting professional pet euthanasia. Major national chains like PetSmart have breeders who provide hamsters for sale, and they rarely need to look for new sources of small animals. Live Fish & Invertebrates refunds may only be given by contacting Customer Service and cannot be given at any Petco store location. You can also purchase hay, pellets, and fresh vegetables separately and mix them yourself. Offering 5-10 tablets of Tylenol PM should do the trick but expect your hamster to look disoriented after overdosing on the painkillers. Dont forget to provide clean fresh drinking water for your pet hamster. As the hamster hasnt had to defend itself against larger animals in captivity, it would likely be killed by a predator, like a cat. Also, dont anonymously leave it outside a rescue center for workers to find. Not every hamster in the pet store is in optimal health. link to Can you cook mince 1 day out of date? If behavior is not an issue, and you are simply no longer able to keep your pet, contact the pet store where you purchased it. This method is not recommended for anyone looking to put down pet rodents in a humane way. Your dog or cat may want to chase or eat them. 3. If not, they should be able to tell you of ones that can. Can I Take My Hamster Back to the Pet Shop? No money, refund, or other compensation will be given if you bring the animal to one of the companys locations to find a new home. Pet hamsters should be kept in a clean cage with adequate space. A hamster that is used to spending time outside of its cage and exploring with its owner may feel bored when suddenly left alone in its cage. Here is what my veterinarian recommended. They use body language to communicate with each other and will also try to communicate with you. If you are returning a sick hamster, you may also need to provide a vets note. David Krug is the CEO & President of Bankovia. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'hamsteranswers_com-narrow-sky-2','ezslot_24',165,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-hamsteranswers_com-narrow-sky-2-0');That doesnt mean its not worth enquiring about. If your hamster is sick you should only give them medication recommended to them by the vet. In these instances, youll need to look into rehoming the hamster. Your hamster's diet should be made of 75 % fortified pellets, 20% veggies, greens, and fruits, and 5 % treats. Its an upsetting thought, but some snake owners look to purchase hamsters as a food source. An original receipt or purchase confirmation email will be required to verify your identity and transaction. Not all hope is lost if you lose your receipt. Some people believe their hamster may get lonely if it is living alone, but hamsters are generally solitary animals. However, there are some basic rules to follow when feeding this fruit to your hamster, to reduce any possible side effects. Push the hose close to the bottom of the jar and pour out the leftover vinegar into the bag. Yes, your pet hamster can be euthanized, if your hamster is ill, injured, has organ failure or cancer, severe illness, or old. If you need to be gone longer than 48 hours, you should make arrangements for someone to check your hamsters food and water levels and be prepared to refill any empty parts. While the technique is criticised by many in the veterinary community, The University of Iowa and some vets consider cervical dislocation an ethical method for putting down small rodents such as hamsters. Petsmart also doesnt have shrimp or snails or many things needed to care for them and most fish such as driftwood. Handling a hamster correctly is crucial to both your safety and the safety of your pet. Mikey McDanielPetco Yes, you can return; however, we recommend calling ahead. There are laws about releasing animals into the wild. Is it better to buy fish at Petco or PetSmart? Use a. Over time, showerheads can become clogged with deposits of calcium, magnesium, lime, silica, and other minerals. Pets at Home will rehome unwanted hamsters. Petco reserves the right to limit returns regardless of receipt. If you are going to be leaving your hamster alone, make sure it has a functioning wheel and high-interest toys to explore while it waits for your return. A sick hamster can be returned to Petco for a 30-day guarantee on companion animals, which includes hamsters, and your local shop may accept the return. When your hamster does not have the strength to pee or poop like normal. If youre determined to sell your hamster, youll need to prepare yourself, as you wont make much money. However, the vast majority of their diet should be made up of plants. If your hamster is older than 8 weeks, youll need to reduce your asking price from what a pet store would expect. How Much Does it Cost To Euthanize a Hamster? Hamsters in pet shops should have clean, good-sized accommodation and access to food and fresh water. Why Does My Hair Get Greasy After A Day? Yes. Most state laws on euthanasia specify conditions under which the procedure can be carried out at home and the general guidelines to follow. We are sorry to hear about your bird. If money is no object, at-home euthanasia services for hamsters can be an option too. Leave your hamster only dry shelf-stable food. It is recommended to consult your Vet for the final decision. Some vets offer complementary services including burial or cremation. Checking your hamsters food and water at least every other day for freshness as well as signs of being eaten is ideal. Returns for same-day delivery purchases, purchases made with our "Buy & Pickup" online feature and purchases made on the DoorDash App may only be made in stores. If you no longer want the hamster, ask friends and family if theyre interested in a new pet. According toThe Laboratory Rabbit, Guinea Pig, Hamster, and Other Rodents, Syrian hamsters are commonly used in laboratory experiments. It's also a good idea to provide hay in your hamster's environment to help with nesting and foraging. Hamsters generally eat grains, seeds, vegetables, and fruits like apples. Also, personal circumstances can change, meaning you can no longer care for the hamster. Most often asked questions related to bitcoin. Respiratory infections for hamsters are very hard on their small airways and lungs. Most hamsters sold by pet stores are 6-8 weeks old and retail at about $10-20. Few things are more admirable than the sight of a pet responding to its name when called. Ask them for photos of their setup to ensure they can properly care for your hamster. They're small, adorable, and relatively easy to care for. If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase, you can return it to one of our retail store locations. The distance from the vets clinic to your home and other location-based factors may also determine how much it costs in the end. Take all the necessary precautions to protect your hamster from other companion animals at home. When your hamster struggles significantly to breathe. Before you get one as a pet, there are some things you should know. So, its worth getting in touch with any centers in the area. They dont take returns. Hamsters are typically nocturnal animals that like to burrow and hoard food. Some only take cats and dogs, while others have the facilities to take in hamsters and other small animals. -Food: $5-$10 For young children, this can be problematic, especially if the hamster bites their sensitive fingers. If you no longer want the hamster, ask friends and family if they're interested in a new pet. Hamster breeding is not something the casual hamster owner should do. It is best left to hamster breeders who are breeding for specific qualities and temperaments but accidents do happen. See also How To Introduce Formula To Breastfed Baby Four good reasons to indulge in cryptocurrency! By While a pet hamster was almost certainly born in captivity, it'll retain instincts that drive it. Typically, the longer the level of experience, the higher the price charged but there may be exceptions. Our cage with 32"43.3"21" spacious inner space can give your beloved pet a sweet home and its contrast-colored appearance make a decorative display to your room.The cage comes with 3 resting shelves and 3 safety-ramps; a slide-out tray; and removable bottom grilles; lockable casters; etc. [Old Enough + Too Old], 4 Different Types of Small Pet Hamster Species (with Pictures), What To Look Out for When Buying A Hamster, Why Is My Hamster's Fur Changing Color? This leaves them vulnerable and highly stressed. Plus, they come in a variety of colors and fur types. Although hamsters cannot live as long as other pets such as cats and dogs, they can still make excellent pets. Here are the most popular options available. Open the 1 gallon jar or juice pitcher and add familiar litter and toys from the hamsters cage to provide comfort during the little guys last moments. Im Chuck and I love pets. If youve ever walked around a PetSmart store you know they sell critters like snakes, iguanas, mice, rats, hamsters, and other cool creatures. Hamsters generally eat grains, seeds, vegetables, and fruits like apples. The hamster must be in good health, and you may be charged a restocking fee. Hamsters are trainable. This will allow you to gain your hamster's trust over time, and allow you to pet and hold your hamster while avoiding being bitten. However, as long as your hamster is easy to handle, or your room is hamster-proofed, it is okay to let your hamsters free roam regardless of species. Most hamsters will also eat the immature seeds in the hay. What Should You Do If Your Hamster Has Babies. It's not just a random date that the food company picked out of thin air. Hold the cup through the plastic bag and pour out a half gallon of the vinegar slowly into the baking soda making sure it takes about 60 seconds. Several cages may look cool, but aren't very functional and are extremely difficult to clean (cages with colorful tubes are a good example of this). Even if your hamsters bottle is relatively full, it is best to dump and prepare a completely fresh bottle before leaving your hamster alone. Because hamsters like to store their extra food in special areas of their cage, we want to avoid having the hamster store fresh food that is likely to spoil while you are gone. For times when you know, you will be leaving your hamster alone, opt instead for dry shelf-stable food that will hold its nutritional value and not rot while sitting in your hamsters cage waiting for your return. The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. They should provide a large enough cage, a wheel, deep bedding, and accessories. If the teeth are left to continue growing they will eventually start causing pain and other health issues. Many unsuspecting new hamster owners find themselves with a pregnant hamster after purchasing it from a pet store. The shelter will likely already have more hamsters and small animals than theyll ever rehome. As popular as hamsters are, theyre not adopted as often as cats, dogs, or rabbits. There are also rescue groups for hamsters and other rodents, the Humane Society. Both amyloidosis and congestive heart failure have no cure. There are several methods available for DIY hamster euthanasia but the gas chamber option seems to be the most pain-free from personal experience. Hamsters are omnivorous, meaning that they eat both plants and animals. Preventing an escape from happening is more pleasant than going on a hunt for your hamster when you return home. You can use a specialist app like Pets Home or a website like Animal Direct, which allows you to set your price. However, if circumstances require you to be away for one or two days, with proper preparation, your hamster should be just fine. There are a variety of hamster toys that are designed to be chewed so your hamster's teeth can be properly cared for, and an exercise wheel will allow a hamster to run as much as they want. A good way to think about it is that hamsters should eat a diet that is mostly hay, with a small amount of fresh vegetables and a very tiny amount of pellets, The best way to ensure that your hamster is getting a good mix of hay, fresh vegetables, and pellets is to purchase a commercially prepared hamster food mix. Hamster cremation can be done on the same day or the next depending on the crematoriums schedule and how much youre willing to fork out. Nandini Balial is a writer and fact checker specializing in a variety of lifestyle topics, including film/TV, literature, and feminism, with work appearing in Slate, Wired, Pacific Standard, and more prestigious outlets. A hamster that has escaped without notice for more than 48 hours will be much harder to track down than one that has only just made a breakout. Encounters between hamsters that don't know each other can result in violent fights. It is wise not to try and introduce two hamsters into the same living space. From my personal experience, Petco has been better than petsmart. It is important that you make sure your home is safe and conducive for a pet hamster. The average hamster lifespan is relatively short, around 1-2 years, but they can live up to 5 years. Can I Return Live Animals? At this point, you may be wondering, will pet stores take hamsters? Create a tiny nest and cover the jar with a cloth or shredded paper to limit the hamsters movements during the final minutes.