Frequently Asked Questions

Gerbils, Meriones unguiculatus, are little mammals that belong to the rodent family.  Their size is between that of a mouse and a rat. Gerbils come in over 40 different colors and have long, furred tails with a brushy tuft at the end. They live an average of 2-6 years. Originating from the semi-deserts and steppes of Mongolia, gerbils were first brought to America in 1954. They’re considered an exotic small pet and have a reputation for being docile and social.

•  Practically odorless
•  Not prone to biting
•  Obsessive groomers
•  Hypoallergenic for humans
•  Social and affectionate
•  Sleep through the night
•  Active and entertaining
•  Good at recycling cardboard
•  Low budget pets
•  Low maintenance

Reputable breeders, sometimes dubbed “hobby breeders,” raise gerbils out of passion rather than profit. They do it for the betterment of the species, breeding out common gentic issues and illnesses. Their focus is on healthy gerbils with good temperaments, sometimes for specific colors or markings. They typically have a few litters a year, placing them carefully in loving forever homes. Hobby breeders prioritize the well-being of their gerbils.

Pet store gerbils usually come from less than loving beginnings. Their exact age and health history is unknown and they can be skittish. Inbred and mis-sorted pregnant gerbils are sold commercially every day.

Our gerbils are loved and handled from the day they’re born. They go home as healthy and happy pups eager to interact with you. We keep careful records of all gerbils which are available to each adopting family. We also offer post-adoption support free of charge.

The adoption process involves a quick chat to discuss your lifestyle and gerbil care, followed by reviewing and agreeing to our Terms of Adoption. This ensures a good fit for both you and the gerbils! See our Information page for complete details.

We accept cash, checks, crypto, Venmo, and Zelle for your convenience.

Yes. Traveling long distances with gerbils in extreme outside temperatures can be safe if you ensure their comfort throughout the trip. Keep the car’s interior temperature 68-75°F. Secure their Critter Keeper on a passenger’s lap for easy monitoring, or buckle it safely onto a seat with a thick towel underneath for shock absorption. Drape a towel loosely over the carrier to block direct sunlight and minimize stress.

 We offer delivery within Austin for an extra fee (subject to availability). We’re searching for partners to ship gerbils outside Austin. You’d be responsible for coordinating and covering the cost of such transport.

ABSOLUTELY NOT. Our beloved gerbils will NEVER be used for science or to become snake food.

Our gerbils come from a variety of loving places! Most are from reputable breeders like ourselves, ensuring healthy genetics. Sometimes, a healthy gerbil in need (like an accidental litter or a surrender) finds its way to us with all the traits we seek in our pups, bringing valuable diversity to our breeding program. We’ve even helped gerbils from hoarding situations, finding them forever homes after veterinary care and rehabilitation.

I’m registered as a member and certified hobby breeder through the American Gerbil Society, under the kennel name “Hill Country Gerbils” with ID TX085 and nominclature HCG.  Chapter 822 of the Texas Health and Safety Code outlines what exotic animals are legal to own and how to do so in the Lone Star State. Gerbils do not require an exotics license to own and breed in Texas.

No worries! If your question isn’t here, just use our Contact Form and we’ll be happy to help!