Abandoned Hairless Hamster Gets A Tiny Sweater To Protect From Cold

Meet Silky, the hairless hamster who just got dropped off at a shelter after her owners decided to move and had to leave her behind. Despite her different looks, staff at Oregon Humane Society in Portland couldn’t help but fall in love with the pet. And while the hamster is patiently waiting for a loving new home, one of the workers crocheted a special tiny sweater to keep the poor hairless Silky warm…

Animal technician Selene Mejia came up with the sweater idea after seeing Silky huddled in the corner of her cage. The little animal was obviously feeling cold, as due to the lack of hair Silky needs extra warmth. The sweater made a huge difference as now she can wait for a new owner feeling all warm, cozy, and stylish!

“Silky is hairless due to a genetic mutation,” Diana Gabaldon of the Oregon Humane Society told The Dodo. “While she isn’t fluffy like a normal hamster, she is just as cuddly and playful as any other hamster. She does need to be kept in a heated environment, especially during the winter, and have a higher protein diet to keep her warm.”

So if you have a house that’s nice and warm, and believe that different is beautiful… Maybe it’s time to let one special little hamster into your world – and into your heart.

More info: Oregon Humane Society | Facebook (h/t: thedodo)