Questions & Answers:
- What are some of the main reasons guinea pigs and rabbits end up in rescues?
Not understanding the commitment. Having a pet, even small pet is a big commitment. Besides – People who put males and females together may end up with more pets than expected. Pet stores also often sell people pregnant guinea pigs without them knowing. Also – Guinea pigs and rabbits have 8-12 years life span which is longer than many people expected before getting them. - What can people do before getting a pet to make sure they are prepared?
Research a lot about the animal first, so they know how to care for them and whether they can handle the responsibility or not. - What are some thing people should consider before getting a pet?
Commitment and responsibilities
Lifespan, people should consider whether they are able to care for the pet their whole life, rabbits live up to 12 years, and guinea pigs up to 8.
Expense, people should consider whether they can afford the pet or not, often they only look at the cost of the animal itself, and not the long term costs like veterinary cost, food, temperature control/utility cost. - What are the minimum space requirements for guinea pigs and rabbits?
8 square feet for guinea pigs, and for rabbits it is advised that they are not kept in cages but rather have a small room to live in. - What are some ways to educate people and kids on these commitments?
Well – one of the way is concise but accurate information like this website. Schools and Scouts are good forums to educate kids. - How expensive is veterinary care?
Normally around 80 – 100 for an annual visit. the only case you would spend a lot on veterinary care is if they were severely ill or hurt which is pretty rare. However, you should take that into account as animals do get sick or hurt. - What are the considerations and recommendations before adopting a pet?
Do your research
Visit near by shelter and see if you have opportunity for fostering the pet before adopting. This will help you get familiarized with what it takes to care for the pet without the long term commitment.
Both Guinea pigs and rabbits need a healthy diet. Hay should be available at all times to them.
Consider cost for food and caring for the pets
Guinea pigs must be kept in pairs to avoid isolation as they are very emotional and wouldn’t be happy if they don’t have round the clock companies.
Adopt if possible and don’t buy as pets stores often sell people pregnant or sick guinea pigs without you knowing, and you can get better information about the pets and how to care for them from the shelter. - Should I spay or neuter my pet rabbit?
Yes – It is recommended as Rabbits can live healthier and longer life as it reduces the risk of reproductive cancers and alters their behavior too as they are calmer, less chewing, digging, biting, easier to litter train and friendlier in general. You can also avoid unexpected overpopulation problem. - Should I spay or neuter my pet Guinea pig?
No. Generally it is not recommended unless medical necessity. These types of surgery is risky, stressful and may cause them harm. To avoid the over population problem, you can bring pairs of male or female guinea pigs. - What about the routines and schedules I should be aware of?
Each pet will have their own individual personality and you will be able to identify once you get to know them. In general – rabbits are active during dawn and dusk. During this time they will be very active – eating, playing, and chewing things, exploring around. Evening could be a great time too for playing with them, relaxing and bonding. Guinea pigs like schedules, they want their food delivered the same time each day, so that is something people should keep in mind as well.