THIS week's pets up for adoption have proved to be a real handful.

With more than 90 gerbils currently running round her rabbit and rodent rescue centre in Hythe, Jackie Stokes feels it's definitely time to find them new homes.

Jackie said: "We really are overrun. We've got all sorts of varieties and all the colours under the sun.

"People have been told in pet shops that they are being given gerbils of the same sex.

"They can be told they have been given four boys but instead it turns out to be three girls and one boy.

"They then mate pretty early and we end up with lots around the place.

"We even have them coming in pregnant. "Obviously, once they are here we make sure the boys and girls are kept apart."

Jackie believes the gerbils can be the perfect pets, requiring little attention but providing loads of fun.

She said: "They are excellent children's pets. They never bite and don't sleep all day like hamsters. It's lovely to watch their antics."

Anyone who wants to take home a gerbil should contact Jackie on 01703 847519.

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