i've never had small pets other than rabbits. i did care for A LOT of gerbils and hamsters at the petstore i worked at. they are pretty easy to care for just make sure you change their bedding EVERYDAY. make sure they have fresh food and water. gerbils also like veggies. add a little extra nutrition with some carrots, peas, green beans, etc. stay away from iceburg lettuce. it is highly toxic to gerbils.

good luck with the gerbils!