For most of us, space is always at a premium in our homes. We have one or two pet-friendly solutions for you. Small companion animals offer a variety of characteristics and personalities that make them especially endearing. Their small size and relative ease of care make them ideal for households that have limited space, but larger-than-average hearts.
Rabbits are personable and affectionate creatures, and they enjoy play and frolic. With a little guidance, they can become fine house rabbits, able to roam freely in supervised areas. Interesting toys, like paper towel tubes and untreated wicker, provide much-needed outlets for their desire to chew. "Bunny proof" areas of your home in which the rabbit may roam: loose wires, books and papers are too enticing to resist. Many rabbits will even faithfully use a litterbox. Well-socialized bunnies enjoy being handled and are comfortable with gentle children. Getting down to their level makes these curious creatures feel more comfortable.
When well socialized, rodents make good companions for children. They require toys to chew on — the chewing keeps them mentally and physically healthy. Fun, yet simple, things include wooden toys, untreated cardboard and hard dog biscuits. Rodents also enjoy supervised time sharing affections outside of their habitat. Durable, safe toys and clean bedding are a must inside of their habitat. Rodents enjoy a simple place to hide in their habitats — cardboard boxes, baskets and durable plastic items make cozy homes. Bedding should be soft and absorbent; there are several fine products available at pet supply stores. Please avoid pine or cedar wood shavings as their oils are harmful to animals.
Rats are intelligent, social critters who prefer to be in the company of people and other rats (same sex or altered, please). Quiet and easy to care for, rats are especially good with children; and yes, they are quite clean. Guinea pigs vocalize their happiness with squeals, whistles and shrieks. Quiet and calm is the ideal lifestyle for guinea pigs and their unique size makes them perfect lap pals. Guinea pigs are often at ease in the company of rabbits. Frisky and playful, hamsters are entertaining to watch. They are naturally solitary animals, except with their human friends. Being fastidiously clean creatures, hamsters prefer frequent cleaning of their habitat and nesting materials. Hamsters are also most active at night.
Birds relish the companionship of other birds and people. The most vocal of small companion animals, gregarious birds may chirp up a storm to remind you that they are happy or in need of attention. Parakeets, cockatiels, finches and parrots are common household companions, and when hand tamed, they like being held. Birds are very intelligent and require very specialized attention and enrichment. These colorful critters have a long lifespan. Many large birds are captured from the wild and all birds were born to fly. Is a cage in your home the best place for a large bird?
Reptiles, the quietest of the bunch, enjoy a variety of terrarium environments, from arid to aquatic, depending on the species. Habitat temperatures need to be carefully regulated, and light and heat sources are important to these sensitive creatures. Turtles, lizards and snakes also have very specialized dietary requirements. Reptiles are another species most comfortable in their natural environment.
Unique petite pets are always available at the Marin Humane Society. View them online at www.marinhumanesociety.org or call the Adoption Center at 506-6225.
Tails of Marin appears every Saturday in the Home & Garden section of the Marin Independent Journal
