Female ferret with hutch

Be extra cautious with online transactions!
We encourage you to read these guidelines before buying or adopting a rodent.

Have you done your research?

Carry out the research so you have all the necessary knowledge of the pet you are getting. Since owning a pet is a big commitment, you should research about the breed fully to make sure it fits your current lifestyle and budget.

Have you seen the pet?

Take time to visit the advertiser's home to confirm if they are genuine. Do not settle for online communications and photos. UK Pets does not verify the authenticity of all advertisers. The advertiser should allow you to personally see the rodents with their mother. If they keep on giving you excuses why you could not visit their home or the address stated in the advert is not the accurate and permanent location of the pet, consider this a red flag.

Avoid online payment

Never pay anything online through money transfer companies especially if you have not personally visited the advertiser and seen the pet, this includes deposit and delivery cost for the pet. There is also no means to recover your money if issues arise. Before closing a deal.

Responsible Advertiser

The advertiser should only release the rodents from their mothers when they are:

• Guinea Pigs - 3 weeks old or older.

• Degus, Gerbils, Hamsters - 4 weeks old or older.

• Chinchillas , Hedgehogs, Pygmy , Sugar Gliders - 8 weeks old or older.

They should be responsible enough to know that separating the rodent from the mother earlier results in medical and behavioural issues.