Guinea Pig Population Explodes At California Shelters

CALIFORNIA — An influx of guinea pigs has hit Los Angeles County shelters and across the state of California, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles announced this week.

The little mammals have been coming in as owner surrenders, the news release said, with some stray guinea pigs arriving at shelters. Some animal welfare organizations have noticed the uptick in owner surrenders may coincide with people going back to school and work. SpcaLA said another reason so many guinea pigs are being taken to shelters could be that there are not a lot of spay and neuter resources.

“The first wave of the pandemic brought many small pet or ‘pocket pet’ adopters,” said Madeline Bernstein, spcaLA President, in the news release. “Now we are experiencing another wave, but this time the tide is not in the animals' favor. Small animals are coming in, but we aren’t seeing as many adopters for them.”

Shelters including spcaLA facilities are offering a "foster to adopt" option for those interested in adopting guinea pigs. Currently the adoption fee is $15 at spcaLA shelters.

According to spcaLA, "guinea pigs need large, solid bottom cages with plenty of Timothy Hay for bedding. They also like to hide, so including a hutch is recommended. They should have balls or toys to play with, and a chew for their teeth, which are always growing.⁠ They need plenty of fresh clean water, kibble, a small amount of fresh fruits and veggies daily, and oranges or a vitamin C supplement.⁠"

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