Foster adorable chinchillas!

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Apply to become a foster volunteer at http://bit.ly/foster_application today to care for adult or baby chinchillas! Be sure to select "Foster Care - Critters" as your program preference.

Chinchillas are quick, perky little animals. They are small and fragile, have beautiful soft lush fur, are inquisitive, have a boisterous nature but are also very quiet.

Seattle Animal Shelter volunteers foster small animals in their homes when our critter room is overcrowded. We provide training and some supplies; all you need is a quiet room and willingness to help. A commitment of at least 3 months is requested.

Environment & Supplies Needed:

* You will need space for a large cage in your home.

* Cage is provided.

* Ability to provide fresh food and regularly wash cage linens.

* Chinchilla food is available in pet stores (grass/ hay/grass-based chinchilla pellets).

* Must keep other pets away from chinchillas.


TIME COMMITMENT

* Socialize and handle chinchillas for at least one hour per day, more time encouraged.
* Provide time out of the cage environment for at least one hour daily (can be combined with socializing time).

* Respond to occasional shelter staff emails promptly (within 24hrs)

Chinchillas love play-time outside of his cage. They like to run around, jump and explore their surroundings. They like play stimulation chew toys - applewood and willow sticks are greatfor them to chew on.

Chinchillas take "dust baths" - they are super fun to watch but keep in mind that occasionally people learn that they are allergic to the dust. Chinchilla cages require regular cleaning.

SKILLS:

* Volunteers should have good animal handling skills.
* Some small animal experience is appreciated but not mandatory. We will provide resoruces.

Minimum age: 18

Volunteer Orientation required: Yes


More About Chinchillas:
Chinchillas are native to the mountains of South America where they are a mostly nocturnal (active dusk to dawn). They are most comfortable indoors in a dry cool climate (60-70 degrees).