A Moment of Paws

By Dr. Edward Schettino

If you are considering pet adoption, but a dog or cat doesn’t fit into your home or lifestyle, then a small animal be right up your alley! March is National Adopt a Guinea Pig month, so what better time to learn more about these wonderful, loveable pets.

Over the past year, the Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL), along with other humane organizations, have seen a drastic uptick in the number of guinea pigs looking for new homes.

Why do guinea pigs make great family pets? Aside from the cuteness factor, they are social, inquisitive, and communicate through adorable squeaks and squeals. Most active at dawn and dusk, watching guinea pigs’ rambunctious playtime is guaranteed entertainment for both children and adults alike.

If a guinea pig sounds like a great addition to your family, check out these 5 tips before you adopt:

1. Consider twice the love. Most guinea pigs enjoy being with their own kind, so consider adopting a pair! When you’re not home they can entertain and keep one another company.
2. There can be diversity in their diet – Hay and pellet food are staples to ensure that guinea pigs receive proper daily nutrition. Mixing in green leafy vegetables as snacks, and fruit as dessert, will keep your pet happy and satisfied.
3. Don’t skimp on the Vitamin C – Like humans, guinea pigs do not produce vitamin C, so it’s important for them to take a daily supplement, available at pet food and supply stores.
4. Add excitement with enrichment. Adding toys, hidey houses, and other safe objects in your guinea pig’s enclosure will keep them busy in their private space. Out-of-cage time is also necessary every day to allow them to play, explore, and cuddle with you!
5. Bond over training. Guinea pigs are both curious and intelligent, which means that there are a number of “tricks” you can train a guinea pig to do, including learning and responding to their name, and litter box training. The possibilities are endless!

And finally, just like any other household pet, your guinea pig will need regular veterinary visits. A healthy guinea pig can live up to 10 years or more, and proper veterinary care will ensure that your guinea pig is healthy, happy, and thriving.

No matter the species, if you have questions or concerns, ARL is here to help. You can reach out to ARL’s free Pet Behavior Helpline by calling (617) 226-5666, or email [email protected].

Dr. Edward Schettino is the President and CEO of the Animal Rescue League of Boston, and has a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University.