Pair of Adorable Degus Up for Adoption at Indiana Shelter

Normally, we spotlight just one of the many animals available for adoption at the Vanderburgh Humane Society (VHS) as our Pet of the Week. However, there are times when two or more will share the spotlight. That's the case this week with Mate and Sammie, two adorable members of the rodent family hoping you'll want to make them a part of your family.

Mate and Sammie's Story

Mate and Sammie are Degus which the VHS describes as a "chinchilla, mouse, and a Pikachu all rolled into one." According to Britannica, degus are native to South America and are primarily found on the lower western slopes of the Andes Mountains in central Chile at elevations up to 3,900 feet. They prefer open grassy areas near shrubs, rocks, and stone walls.

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They are extremely social animals and are often found living in communities of up to 100, according to the VHS. As you can see from the video above, they are also very active, so if you decide you'd like to bring them into your home, make sure they have a wheel and other toys to play with.

It's also important to note that degus can live for a while. Their average life span is seven to nine years, so keep that in mind if you consider adopting them.

Adoption Information

Their adoption fee is $25 each. However, they are bonded and the VHS prefers you keep them together and adopt them both.

What Are Bonded Animals?

According to House with a Heart:

Bonded pairs of animals have generally grown up together. While often siblings, non-siblings can bond as well. Although every animal can develop bonds, there are times when these bonds are so close that one or both animals decline when not with the other.

If you'd like to get a jump on the adoption process for Mate and Sammie, or any of the animals the VHS offers that you might be interested in, you can fill out some of the paperwork in advance on the VHS website.

More from the Vanderburgh Humane Society

[Sources: Britannica / House with a Heart]

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