South American Wonders.

They are very clean, don't shed, don't smell, are extremely social, weigh less than 2 pounds and can live 15 to 20 years. What is this wondrous creature - the South American chinchilla, also known as a "Chin."

They were first imported in to the United States in 1919, by the fur coat industry, but their friendly personality and ease of upkeep found them in our homes as cherished pets soon after.

These fluffy fur balls complete with bushy tail come from the dry Andes Mountains. Their origins make them very sensitive to over heating. They are strictly herbivores-plant eaters, but don't require fresh fruits and vegetables. Specially formulated chin pellets and some hay comprise their well balanced diets. Though fresh water in a sipper tube should always be available, they drink very little water and therefore produce very little urine. This helps to keep their cages cleaner than would be expected of other similar sized pets. Grooming is simple. Provide a bowl of chinchilla dust for a few minutes daily. Your chin will instinctually know what to do. Some people are allergic to the dust, so beware if you are allergy prone.

Chins prefer company. 2 pets can live in a wire cage as small as 3 feet tall, by 24 inches deep, by 3 feet long. They are playful, so provide an exercise wheel and hiding tubes.

Tired of pets that bite and scratch? Chins have no toenails and are very docile. It is still best to supervise small children when they handle these pets. Chinchillas are intelligent, inquisitive and affectionate. If you decide to add a chin to your household, routine veterinary care is still recommended even though they don't require vaccines. Physical examinations will help to insure a good quality of life for your South American companion, and this is important because it is "Your Pet…Health Matters."