Hamsters are definitely born to run. Did you know that hamsters have been reported to run as much as 8 km a night on their wheels? For this reason, it is very important to pick out a good wheel that is safe and comfortable, and also quiet (unless you like to be kept awake by a squeaking wheel during your hamster's nightly marathon). Run-About balls and other out-of-the-cage exercise wheels are also popular, but are not a substitute for a freely accessible wheel in the cage. Find out how to pick a wheel in "Choosing a Hamster Wheel."
If you are curious about just how far your hamster could run, you can measure your hamsters milage by getting a Wodent Wheel equipped with a "Wodometer" (yes, that is really what it is called!)
More About Hamsters: Hamster Care

I just completed an interview with a magazine writer on the topic of "creepy" pets. Though sometimes I find doing interviews difficult, this one was rather fun, and the writer asked some interesting philosophical questions about the general perception of creepy critters. I don't want to give too much away, but the questions really got me thinking. Of course, "creepy" is all in the eye of the beholder; one person may have an extreme phobia about an animal, while another thinks the same animal is a great pet. I do have a list of creepy pets, but it was done in the name of fun and I truly consider the list arbitrary and somewhat unfair to its inhabitants! I think a lot of perceptions and fears about certain "creepy crawlies" are learned as kids growing up a society where some animals are considered cute and lovable and others revolting. What do you think is the best way to get kids to appreciate all forms of life, and stop considering some animals creepy (and perhaps less important)? Use the comments link below to share your thoughts on the topic; later on I'll share some of my comments from the interview.