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• Winter 2011/12

Archived Issues

The story is these furry little creatures were first stumbled upon in 1524. Spaniards traveled to South America and ran into a tribe of Indians called "Chinchas", who introduced the Spaniards to their soft, friendly pets. The Spaniards decided to name them "Chinchillas" or "Little Chinchas" after the Indian Tribe. In 1923 chinchillas finally made their way to North America and have been beloved pets ever since!

Chinchillas are curious, energetic animals and are typically low maintenance. They tend to be quick and perky but usually remain fairly tame and docile when they are given enough play time.

One of the best attributes of chinchillas is their dander free, practically odorless fur coat. Their fur is too thick for fleas to live, making them a great hypo-allergenic pet. Not to mention, chinchilla fur is 30 times softer than human hair making them exceptionally cute and cuddly!

In order to keep their fur healthy, you must allow your chinchilla to take a bath 2-3 times a week. But forget the water and bring on the dust! Chinchillas take dust baths by rolling around energetically, cleaning their coat. It is wise to invest in a dust house to keep the dust from going air borne.

 

Chin Facts!

-Your chinchilla can live 10-20 years.

-Their babies are called kits.

-Kits are born eyes open, fully furred, and ready to go!

-Raisins make great treats.

-Chinchillas can jump up to 5 FEET above their head!

-Chinchillas teeth never stop growing.

-Adult female chinchillas weigh about a pound-and-a-half and are a bit bigger than males.

-Chinchillas love playing with cardboard boxes.

-They are herbivores.

-Chinchillas can be trained.