The first step is to make sure the main caregiver has done proper research on Syrian hamster care. Everyone in the family should be aware and on board. We do not allow "surprise gift" giving as we want to be certain everyone in the family is prepared and understands the responsibilities involved.
Look over our enclosure and wheel space and type requirements, as they have improved over the years as we better understand the Syrian hamster's needs. Please understand we typically have a four month wait list - this will give you time to collect your supplies and make sure you are prepared. Consider that while hamsters may not need regular veterinarian check ups, they may require vet care if ill or injured.
Here is a list of learning resources:
After doing your research, we ask that you fill out our application. It may take us up to 10 days to respond, so please be patient.
NOTE: We CANNOT ship your hamster to you, and we do not work with transportation companies. You must pick up your hamster in person and we require identification upon arrival.
As of January 1st, 2022, if your application is approved, we request a $35 non-refundable deposit to be added to our wait list. The remaining $35 is due upon pickup of your hamster, for a total cost of $70. All applicants approved in 2021 will be charged our prior rates.
Additionally, in order to reserve a hamster you must have an appropriately sized enclosure and wheel. In order to verify that you are ready, we will ask for photographs and measurements of your enclosure and wheel.
Once your name is at the top of our wait list, I will reach out and send photos of hamster pups to choose from. If you are not smitten with available hamsters, you can hold your spot on our wait list and wait for a different litter.
Please note we only hold deposits for one year post application date. After this point, if a hamster has not been selected from us, we will require a new deposit to remain on the list.
Prior to pickup, fill out our purchase agreement and sign electronically. Make sure you've reviewed our care guide as it details much of what you'll need to know once you bring your hamster home.
We cannot hold on to hamster pups indefinitely, as there is a short window of time to send them to a new home. Community living becomes dangerous after 6-8 weeks. Once your pickup appointment has been set, we ask that you give us 48 hours notice if you need to reschedule. Pickup schedules are quite busy, and so our flexibility is limited. If you are unable to pick up the hamster by the time it is 6-8 weeks of age, then we may need find a new home, and you will be moved to the bottom of the waitlist.
NOTE: You will need you bring a small animal travel carrier, made of plastic, not cloth or cardboard. We recommend the Living World Carrier, or the Kritter Keeper XL. We *may* be able to provide one for you at a premium price should you prefer, please inquire before your pickup day to ensure availability.
On your scheduled pickup day, we ask that you send us a text upon arrival and we will meet you outside with your hamster and going home bag. We offer hamster pick up outside of our home with masks on, to ensure everyone's safety.
We work with a select group of ethical Syrian hamster breeders in North America. This group communicates regularly, supports each other, and shares genetic lines. While we are not at liberty to share breeding hamsters with newcomers, we do support people interested in learning more about Syrian hamster genetics and husbandry. To start, we suggest checking out these resources for information:
California Hamster Association
Poppy Bee Hamstery sells hamsters to loving homes that can provide appropriate care. We ask that you look over our agreement, ask us questions if necessary, and sign before purchase.
Purchase agreement (pdf)
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