Sugar Glider versus Budgie

I’m a first-time pet owner seeking a small, trainable pet that’s active and can fly around my room. I have space in my living room for this. I’m a vet student in the UK, researching which pet suits me best, and neither requires a license, as far as I know.

Since I’m away during the day and active at night, I’m considering a sugar glider, which is nocturnal and social. A budgie seems more suitable for beginners but has a shorter lifespan.

I’ll either stay in London or move to Australia after graduation, so I’m also interested in how travel-friendly these pets are and their adaptability to new ownership. Additionally, I’d appreciate any care tips and information on their yearly financial costs. Thanks!

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Honestly, if you can’t commit to a pet for its entire life, you shouldn’t get one. Rehoming animals is challenging, with rescues in the UK already overwhelmed, including exotic pet rescues. Budgies are especially stressed by rehoming, and sugar gliders are hard to rehome due to their rarity and lack of demand.

Both pets require significant investment in large cages, accessories, and specialized diets. Sugar gliders, in particular, are hard to find and expensive, and both types need specialist vets, which are not easy to find.

I’m not trying to discourage you, but it’s crucial to think about the long-term implications and stress involved. Pets limit your flexibility, including travel. If you’re set on getting a pet now, consider smaller rodents like hamsters or mice, but be prepared for their full lifespan as well.

I’ve thought about that too. It’s a challenging time, and I want to ensure I can properly care for a pet if I decide to get one. I appreciate your honesty.

I’ve owned and bred sugar gliders for nearly 6 years and am a mod for the sugar glider subreddit.

I’m not against their ownership, but consider your future schedule. As a student now, your situation may change when you start working full-time, and you’ll need to address their care during vacations, as they can’t be alone for more than 2 nights.

Given your uncertain future and potential moves, sugar gliders may not be ideal. They experience significant stress from changes in their environment and ownership, and traveling with them is challenging. In Australia, they may require permits or be illegal in certain areas, complicating travel.

There are breeders and vendors in the UK and EU, but I’m unsure of the price differences. I recommend joining the Sugar Glider Groupies on Facebook for more information, as it’s a reputable group with a primary UK breeder/moderator.

Sugar gliders tend to be more affectionate, which can be a bonus if that’s something you enjoy. Both sugar gliders and budgies should ideally be kept in pairs, so they are similar in that regard. However, budgies are generally easier to care for and are a better choice if you’re not home frequently. If you’re home often and want a pet that forms a strong bond with you, sugar gliders are a great option. You can even carry them around in a pouch while going about your daily activities.