You can’t help but notice that there seem to be more rescue groups than there are pets who need homes, especially when guinea pig litters are quick to produce. And why is that? What makes a pet a ‘good’ pet or one that needs rescuing? There’s a few things that separate the pets who need rescuing from the ones that don’t. It’s important to be clear about what makes a pet a ‘good’ one, because sometimes the standards for rescues are so high that it’s impossible for a person to pass them up for an equally good alternative. A rescue group may not have as many animals in their ranks because they are concerned about the quality of each one and only accept those pets with absolutely no heart or desire for profit.
So when you consider going through a list of breeders and rescue groups to find a perfect fit for your family, make sure that you take the time to ask plenty of questions. Find out about how long they’ve been in operation, how many animals they have saved and whether or not those animals have been used for profit. It’s also a good idea to ask about the track record of each potential breeder or rescue group, what their policies are and if you can visit the premises. It’s easy to understand why owners would want to keep their pig pets as stress-free as possible so it’s good to find out exactly what accommodations they provide. A well cared for pig can live up to 6-7 years, so you want to make sure that you’re getting the best possible care.
The biggest thing that distinguishes good guinea pig litters from a terrible one is commitment. A good litter will show you that their owners have made a commitment to caring for the animal, not just about the profit but about the physical and mental well-being of the pet. In order for a rescue group to care for pets, they must devote a great deal of time to their work. They must not just turn a blind eye to neglect but commit to working with the owners and other volunteers to ensure that each pet is treated accordingly. If you’ve got a potential pet and are not sure whether or not you could properly care for it, contact a local rescue group and ask them if they’re able to help you find a proper home for your new friend.
You should always try and adopt a guinea pig from a trusted place such as the LA Guinea Pig Rescue