Mar 8, 2008

CRITTER CORNER: Guinea pigs are sensitive, social

Lindsay Reynolds / Daily News columnist

How cavy savvy are you? Well, if you know what a cavy is you are off to a good start. For those of you who aren’t in the know, the common name for a cavy is guinea pig. Since March is Adopt-a-Rescued-Guinea Pig Month, it’s the perfect time to share fun facts about these wonderful companion animals. For instance, did you know guinea pigs originated from South America? That guinea pig babies, called pups, are born fully furred and with their eyes open? That their teeth continue growing?

Here are a few more facts:

Guinea pigs live up to seven years. They require daily care including exercise, mental stimulation, and socialization just like a dog or cat. They may be small but they need large living quarters that provide enough space for them to run around. They enjoy playing “hide and seek” and crawling through tunnels and atop platforms.

Guinea pigs, are herbivores that require vitamin C. Guinea pig pellets usually are supplemented with vitamin C but you’ll also want to include veggies such as kale and cabbage that are rich in this particular vitamin. Piggies also need wood blocks to gnaw on to wear down their growing teeth. Since guinea pigs love to chew, everything in their cage should be nontoxic.

Guinea pigs are social creatures that do best with a pal. Pair piggies with another of the same sex or alter opposite sex pairs so they don’t multiply.

Guinea pigs are sensitive, gentle rodents. Many enjoy being held. They can learn to recognize their owner’s scent and voice. When you enter a room, you will be greeted with their cheery vocalizations, especially if you come bearing treats like carrots or parsley. They’re also known to give affectionate licks.

If you are considering a guinea pig for a pet, visit Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA. The adoption fee at PHS/SPCA is $12. That’s a whole lot of companionship and fun for $12! Visit www.PHS-SPCA.org or call 650-340-7022 for more information.



Lindsay Reynolds is outreach coordinator for the Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA. Her column appears every Saturday in the Daily News. Contact her at crittercorner@dailynews.group.com.