Instructions
Leave your sugar glider alone for two days. Do not attempt to hold your sugar glider for the first two days when you bring it home. It should take two days to get used to the sights and smells of its new home and cage.
Place an article of clothing that has been worn and has your scent in its cage. Place it on the heat rock. Your new pet will get used to your scent. Do this for every member of your family.
Place your sugar glider in a shirt or jacket pocket (this is why they are nicknamed "pocket pets") or in a small pouch. Pouches are designed specially to carry sugar gliders, or you can use a drawstring pouch that you already have. Carry the sugar glider around in your pocket or pouch for two days so he gets used to being close to you.
Start petting him after two days. Pet his back first, then the next day move to petting his stomach. Pet him slowly and firmly. Talk softly to him as you pet him.
Press firmly down on the sugar glider when he starts to chatter. The chattering means he's scared, and pressing down on him firmly reminds him of being squished in the pouch with his mom. This makes him feel safe.
How to Hold a Sugar Glider
Native to Australia and New Guinea, the sugar glider is a small marsupial that delights many pet owners with its propensity to cuddle. It is a social creature, preferring to have another glider for company. It is often called a "pocket pet" because it can fit in your pocket and will delight in being carried around all day. Petting the sugar glider in your pocket can benefit both pet and owner. It may be small, but it doesn't need to be treated with kid gloves.