Hamsters Prove Great Things Come in Small Packages

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 13, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Move over Bear Grylls, there's another survivor in town and this one is tiny, but mighty. They can't parachute out of a plane, bench press an enormous amount of weight or canoe down the Amazon River, but look no further than a popular American pet for a surprising example of strength this month. Hamsters possess many interesting qualities that not only make them one of America's ten most popular small pets, but it also means they have the skills to be a top survivor, and no, we aren't referring to the T.V. show. Though hamsters can be anywhere from 2–7 inches long, they display incredible amounts of strength, stamina and intelligence to prove they are one resilient companion animal. On August 24–25, 2013 from 1 p.m.–2 p.m. families can learn more about America's strong and popular rodent at Petco's free, family–friendly "Meet the Critters" event.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130423/MM99615)

Below are some fun facts about hamsters that show they are not only the ultimate animal in strength but also companionship:

• Lifting weights is easy: Hamsters can carry half their body weight in their cheeks alone. When cheek pouches are at their full size, they can sometimes stretch to their shoulders. Most of the time, these pouches are used to store food, but sometimes, female hamsters hide their young in their cheeks to protect them from danger.
• Hamsters never get lost: Chinese hamsters have scent glands on their abdomens that they rub on objects to leave a scent trail so they can follow it back to their den.
• Not afraid of the dark: Hamsters are nocturnal, meaning they are active at night. This also means their sense of smell is heightened so they can identify dangers and find their way in the dark.
• Hamsters are long distance champs: It's true...hamsters can run up to eight miles a day on hamster wheels. To keep up with the pet's physical needs, the Humane Society of the United States recommends plastic hamster wheels, instead of metal ones with spokes, to prevent injuries to their small toes and feet.
• Brawn and brains: Not only are hamsters physically fit, but they are mentally alert as well. Like a dog or a cat, hamsters can be trained to perform simple tricks, relying on their intelligence to help them remember certain cues and commands.

At the weekend–long event, families and friends can learn from friendly and knowledgeable Petco associates about what type of hamster is right for their home. Attendees will also learn about this animal's complete health including keeping them physically fit, mentally alert, socially engaged and emotionally happy. Though hamsters are strong, they still need the proper tender loving care they deserve.

For more information about hamsters and this month's family–friendly "Meet the Critters" event visit www.petco.com/kids or visit the nearest Petco location.

About Petco
Petco is a leading pet specialty retailer that provides the products, services and advice that make it easier for our customers to be great pet parents. Everything we do is guided by our vision for Healthier Pets. Happier People. Better World. We operate more than 1,200 stores nationwide and in Puerto Rico, including more than 50 Unleashed by Petco locations, a smaller format neighborhood shop, and www.petco.com. The Petco Foundation, an independent nonprofit organization, has raised more than $110 million since it was created in 1999 to help promote and improve the welfare of companion animals. In conjunction with the Foundation, we work with and support thousands of local animal welfare groups across the country and, through in-store adoption events, help find homes for more than 350,000 animals every year.

Contact:
Krista Lamp
[email protected]
619-501-2756

SOURCE Petco

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