Give a Small Pet aBig Second Chance
Connect with caring owners who need to rehome their beloved hamsters, guinea pigs, rats, and other small pets. Find your perfect pocket-sized companion today.
Benefits of Small Pet Adoption
Discover why adoption is a wonderful way to find your new tiny friend
Save a Small Life
Give a loving home to hamsters, guinea pigs, rats, and other small pets whose owners can no longer care for them.
Minimal Adoption Fees
Adoption fees are typically very low or waived, often including cage, supplies, and food to get started.
Known Personalities
Get detailed information about temperament, handling preferences, and social needs from current owners.
Cage & Supplies Included
Many adoptions include the habitat, toys, and supplies, saving you setup costs and time.
Owner Support
Previous owners often provide ongoing advice and support to ensure a smooth transition.
Prevent Abandonment
Help reduce the number of small pets released or surrendered to overcrowded shelters.
Small Pets Available for Adoption Near You
Give a loving home to a small pet in need. All pets are health-checked and ready for adoption.
Ever
Common Rat
Donald
Ferret
Gizmo, Lenny, And Daffy
Common Rat
Toby And Monty
Ferret
Eustace
Common Rat
Paul
Common Rat
Symba
Guinea Pig
Gerbie
Mongolian Gerbil
How Small Pet Adoption Works
Our straightforward process makes it easy to adopt your new pocket pet
Research & Prepare
Learn about different small pet species and their specific care requirements.
- Research space and time commitments
- Check if you have allergies
- Budget for ongoing care
Browse Available Pets
Look through our listings of small pets available for adoption in your area.
- Consider adopting pairs for social species
- Read full descriptions
- Check health status
Contact the Owner
Reach out to current owners to ask questions and arrange a meeting.
- Ask about diet and favorite foods
- Inquire about handling preferences
- Request health history
Meet the Pet
Meet the small pet in person to ensure it's a good match for your family.
- Observe their behavior
- Try gentle handling if appropriate
- Ask to see their current setup
Complete Adoption
If it's a match, complete the adoption and welcome your new tiny friend home.
- Get care instructions
- Take familiar items for comfort
- Schedule a vet check
Small Pet Care Requirements
Understanding the needs of different small pet species
| Species | Social Needs | Minimum Space | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guinea Pigs | Must have companions | 7.5+ sq ft for pair | Need vitamin C daily |
| Hamsters | Must live alone (Syrians) | 450+ sq inches | Nocturnal, need deep bedding |
| Rats | Need same-sex pairs/groups | 2.5 cubic feet minimum | Highly intelligent, need enrichment |
| Mice | Females do well in groups | 360+ sq inches | Very active, need wheels |
| Gerbils | Best in same-sex pairs | 360+ sq inches | Need sand baths, love digging |
| Chinchillas | Can live alone or in pairs | Large multi-level cage | Need dust baths, cool temperatures |
Browse by Species
Find the perfect small pet based on species and special circumstances
Guinea Pigs
Social, gentle pets that do best in pairs
Friendly, vocal, 5-8 year lifespan
Hamsters
Independent pets perfect for first-time owners
Low maintenance, 2-3 year lifespan
Rats
Intelligent, affectionate companions
Highly social, trainable, 2-3 year lifespan
Bonded Groups
Pre-bonded pairs or groups that must stay together
Already socialized, immediate companionship
Basic Small Pet Care Requirements
Essential knowledge before adopting your new small pet
Species-Specific Diet
Each species has unique dietary needs - from guinea pig vitamin C to hamster protein requirements.
Proper Housing
Adequate space varies greatly: hamsters need 450+ sq inches, guinea pigs need 7.5+ sq feet.
Daily Care Time
Small pets need daily feeding, water changes, spot cleaning, and social interaction.
Lifespan Awareness
Lifespans vary: mice 1-2 years, hamsters 2-3 years, guinea pigs 5-8 years, chinchillas 10-20 years.
Tips for First-Time Small Pet Adopters
Everything you need to know to ensure a smooth transition
Before You Adopt
- Research species-specific care requirements
- Set up appropriate housing before bringing pet home
- Find an exotic pet veterinarian nearby
- Stock up on appropriate food and bedding
After Adoption
- Give your pet 24-48 hours to settle in quietly
- Maintain the same diet initially to avoid upset
- Start handling slowly and gently
- Watch for signs of illness or stress
Common Small Pets for Adoption
Learn about different small pet types to find your perfect match
Adoption Best Practices
- Always meet the pet in person before finalizing adoption
- Ask about the pet's current diet, schedule, and favorite activities
- Get a written health history and any vet records
- Consider adopting pairs for social species like guinea pigs and rats
- Never release domestic pets into the wild - it's illegal and inhumane
Ready to Give a Small Pet a Loving Home?
Browse available small pets for adoption and find your perfect tiny companion today.