If you've decided that you're up to the challenge of 10-15 years of sugar glider expense, time, and effort, there is still more you need to know. First, you need to check to make sure sugar gliders are allowed as pets in your state. You should also make sure there is a vet in your area who specializes in exotics. Call around and ask if the vets are qualified to work with sugar gliders, if they've had any experience, and if they are trained in exotics. You don't want to get sugar gliders if you cannot find a vet in case of emergencies or check ups. Next, you need to get a cage, toys, water bottles, food dishes, and pouches for your suggies. Once you have their home set up, glider proof your house as much as possible. This means getting outlet covers, always closing toilet seats, not allowing your gliders to be near water or any moving mechanical appliances, or in the kitchen (When I let my gliders out, they are restricted to my bedroom. The doors are close enough to the ground that they cannot slide under. I also get an old comforter to cover my bed so when the gliders have accidents, they aren't doing it on my blankets). Make sure to take out any breakables or valuables. Gliders will explore and try to climb on everything. Some gliders chew more than others, so take out any books, plants, human food, or drinks in the room (they will try to dive into your drink).
Once your home is ready, you can start looking for a sugar glider. Just like puppies from puppy mills, people should NOT buy sugar gliders from pet shops, fairs, or random stores. If you want a baby suggie, find a legit, licensed breeder. I would recommend going to www.thepetglider.com. Moreover, many people try to sell their sugar gliders after a few years when the fun has "gone." People can usually buy sugar gliders from Craigslist.com from people who no longer want their gliders. I suggest getting these gliders because they are usually already socialized, in need of a loving and caring home, and often come with toys, etc. However, the decision is up to you. Make sure to get suggies of the same sex unless you plan on getting the male castrated. Breeding sugar gliders is a very stressful and costly thing to do...leave it to the professionals. Moreover, it is illegal to breed sugar gliders without a license.
After you bring your suggies home, let them get acquainted with their new surroundings and their new cage for a few days. Allow them to get used to your smell. You can do this by putting socks or shirts in the cage or pouch with your gliders (use ones that do not have perfume, cologne, deodorant, or other chemicals on them). Once your gliders have settled in, you can try to take them out. Do not forcibly pull them out of their pouches or chase them around their cage--this can frighten them. Take the pouch out of the cage (or open the cage door) and let your gliders come out when they feel ready. After your gliders have been with you for a few weeks, start bonding with them. Place your gliders in a bonding pouch (preferably one that has a Velcro or zipper top so they can't sneak out) and place the pouch under your shirt. You can do this any day you please (as long as the conditions are safe for the gliders). By using the bonding pouch, your suggies get used to your smell and your voice...allowing them to trust you. When your suggies are in the cage, talk to them often, bring them treats, let them know that your presence is a positive thing. Most gliders bond really well with one person. This means you almost become like a sugar glider to them. You will be their favorite hangout place, and a friend.
Sugar gliders are amazing little creatures but they must be properly cared for. If you have any doubt that you cannot provide everything they need, do not get gliders. Suggies are very high maintenance and live quite a while. Having gliders is a huge commitment but with the right person, can be very rewarding.
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