New Member with 2 Questions

[cphilippou]

Recently became a member and just lurking around since I am interested in getting a chinchilla or 2? and have 2 questions really...

I have been looking around at 2 breeders and 2 ma and pa pet stores around here in DE and seems that the average price is about $150, and I was wondering if that is average or over priced or what?

Second, I know this has been answered before and I have done a few quick searches online but I figured this would be the best place to ask.. I am a full time student so I am very busy, so I guess the main question is should I get one or two? I understand a little more work cleaning wise is required for 2, as well as the price would be a little more for supplies... I found 2 cages online that are essentially the same price and very cheap that can easily house 2 chinchillas... Is there suggestions pros/cons for getting 1 or 2?

thank you guys! :thumbsup:

 

[Encantadora]

I would suggest starting with one. Another chinchilla isn't a substitute for human interaction and may make bonding easier. There is also less mess and better for a new owner to start with a single chin to be responsible for. There's a lot to learn.

Second, that's about the price at pet stores. However, I imagine there are legitimate breeders here near you. A pet quality animal would be less from them. And likely healthier and better socialized/cared for.

Hope this helps. Keep browsing.

 

[LoveBug]

i agree, 1 would be best for now. if you decide later on that you want another then you can get another.

pet stores prices are around 150. but you can find breeders that are less, the chins are healthier, and they may even give you supplies to start out with.

 

[Shooper]

If you decide to get 2, they should already be a bonded pair when you get them because otherwise there's nothing to say they will get along. Look on your local craigslist to see if there are any chins in need of a good home.

 

[rainey]

Chins at petstores here are $300-$400 depending on color. Really outrageous! But anyway yeah it'd be better to buy from a good breeder if you want to guarantee (as best as anyone can) that the chin will be healthy and a good fit. Or look for chins that need saving on CL, there are so many and I really wish I could save them all.

And make sure you really think it through before deciding on getting more than 1! As a poor college student, if I were to do it again I think I would have waited longer before getting more than just the first one. I spend so much time on/with them, it's actually a bit crazy.

 

[cphilippou]

UPDATE:

I found somebody in my area needing to get rid of their 2 chins due to moving.... If I would to pick up both of them being possibly a year old each, would I have a problem with them getting used to me and feeling comfortable with me? from my understanding it is good to get them when they are young in order to form a good solid bond between them... would I have a problem getting slightly older chins from a previous owner ? thanks!

Final edit: I was told that the chins are about 6 years old. Would I have a terribly hard time having them adjust to a new owner? Thanks again guys and gals

 

[lauralynne]

Are the two chins already housed together? Are they a same sex pair?

Those are your two main questions. If they're not already bonded, don't get both. If they are a male/female pair, again, no. (And tell the owner they need to separate them.)

Many find it awesome to get adult chinchillas. They're much more settled into their personalities, etc. When well taken care of, chinchillas can live 15-20 years, so six years old isn't that old when you look at the big picture. They'll adjust to you. Time, patience, and consistency are key.

I like the idea of having a bonded pair so they can keep each other company.

Now, we can get into your schedule. If you're a full time student and already worried about time, you may want to think about waiting all together. There are plenty who work or have school full time who have chins, but that decision is yours alone. Can you take a look at your schedule and HONESTLY say you have the time to commit to a pet? There's nothing wrong with saying you don't, but there IS something wrong with convincing yourself that you do and bring in an animal that depends solely on you and you aren't giving it what it needs.

 

[cphilippou]

thank you for the info, and the edit haha... but yea I definitely have enough time to properly care for, my main questions were just about the 2 together and the age... once again thanks!

 

[Encantadora]

If they are same sex and you're ready to make the commitment, don't let age deter you. Personally, I like older ones. They are usually more settled and no, bonding with you won't be harder with age. It may even be easier.

 

[VolunteerChin22]

there is a get to know you process with all chins. I have placed chins that weren't very friendly with me and was told they were lovebugs at a new house...I personally don't think caring for 1 is any different than caring for multiples but that's just me. Financially though, it is more if you have vet issues.

 

[x3ndless]

price is usually different for the colour of the chin, ive seen standards for 75$. It all depends on the breeder i got my white mosaic for 90 i believe. id deffinetly suggest breeder over pet store, they will be healthier and sometimes more friendly. Most pet store workers don't know much at all.

 

[Riven]

I think pairs are just as good as a single. It's really not harder to take care of two than one. They will still bond with people, usually you'll have one outgoing chin and one reserved chin. It is fun to watch them interact, and a human is not a substitute for another of the same species, especially in one that in the wild lives in such large colonies.

With ANY pair they may have troubles, whether they are already bonded or not. Any bonded pair can suddenly decide they want a divorce.

I recommend a breeder or a rescue. Petstores are only in it for a profit, they pay less than half for the chins than what they sell them for and usually promote subpar care. A responsible breeder will be able to tell you about the animal history and temperament.

If the pair on CL is same sex ( double check when you look at them... ) and you like them and they appear healthy, go for it. Older chins need homes too! And 6 isn't even middle age for chins.