How to Walk a Sugar Glider

Sugar gliders are tiny nocturnal animals native to Indonesia and Australia that are sometimes kept as exotic pets. In order to walk a sugar glider, the owner must spend a vast amount of time bonding with it to ensure that it won't jump away to escape or hide somewhere hard to reach. It's crucial that you don't simply try to walk the sugar glider with a leash--leashes are the leading cause of domesticated sugar glider deaths. Months must be spent getting to know your pet, using special techniques as they grow.

Things You'll Need

  • Sugar glider bonding pouch
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Begin bonding with the sugar glider as soon as possible after he comes home. This is done by using a bonding pouch, a small pouch usually made with fleece that can hang around your neck while the sugar glider hides inside. The animal will eventually get used to your scent and grow fond of you.

    • 2

      Take the sugar glider around the house with you at all times. Even if the animal is only sleeping, holding it close to you and occasionally stroking the pouch will help strengthen the bond. When in its cage, put one of your worn shirts in there with him so he smells you at all times. Eventually he will always want to be around you.

    • 3

      Go on a small walk outside once you are able to walk around the house with the sugar glider sitting on your shoulder or in your pocket. Only go outside if your sugar glider never leaves your side. If he does not stay with you, you risk losing him outside because he will run away and hide somewhere. It's at the owner's discretion if he feels like the sugar glider is truly ready.