You’ve finally added a mouse to your family, and now you want to bond with your new pet. How can you get off on the right foot with your new housemate?

The best thing you can do for your mouse upon bringing him home is to simply leave him alone. This may be an exciting time for you, but your mouse is probably very afraid. He doesn’t know you yet, and doesn’t understand that this will be his home. Giving him the time he needs to explore his new surroundings and calm himself down will lessen his stress a bit. Once some time has passed, place your hand inside his enclosure. Eventually he will come check it out, and over time you can work up to holding him. Your local Long Beach veterinarian can offer additional information on bonding with your pet.