10w Guinea Now On Her Own....

[Bugstar]

.... what do I do?
We bought two guineas for our children, they are about 10 weeks old. But sadly one has died today. We took her for an emergency vet appointment last night, as she hadn't eaten, drank or come out of her igloo for over 24 hours and we were worried. She was x-rayed and she was severely constipated. She was given injections, and we were told to syringe feed her and given Critical Care. But upon checking her this morning, she was gasping for breath and very unwell. We took her to the vets again, but sadly died there. My daughter is beyond devastated, understandably. We'd only had them about 10 days
Now, I know we can't keep our other guinea on her own. But, now I know that I shouldn't buy from breeder or pet shop. But, given how young our other guinea is, can we introduce a rescue guinea to it, given that it is likely to be much older? Or should we get another young one...
I'm lost as to what would be best.... but want to look into ASAP so our other guinea doesn't get too lonely, and to help my little girl.
Any advice would be greatly received...

 

[VickiA]

I’m so sorry for your loss, really. What a sad introduction to piggy keeping.
Firstly is your remaining piggy OK? Has she been seen by a Vet and checked over.?

With a young piggy in theory the introductions should be easier. However you will still need to ensure any new piggy is adequately quarantined and then carry out introductions on neutral territory. Please read our guides on this to be sure you know how to prepare and what to expect.
Introducing And Re-introducing Guinea Pigs
Illustrated Bonding / Dominance Behaviours And Dynamics
Dominance Behaviours In Guinea Pigs

The rescues on our rescue locator may be able to help you find a young or older sow for dating. Our rescues offer dates so that you ensure there is a match between the piggies. It eliminates the risk of you buying another piggy and finding that they don’t get on. Her is the link to the rescue locator Guinea Pig Rescue Centre Locator

 

[Janice C]

What a dreadful few days you've gone through. I'm so sorry that the wee piggy died after having her such a short time. It would certainly be best for th e remaining piggy to get a new friend ASAP especially with her just being a baby. Do try the Forum Rescue Locator as suggested as they will help you find her a suitable companion. Best of luck. X

 

[Reenie]

That's so sad. Your children must be so upset too.
Age isn't really an issue with piggies,an an older and younger piggy could actually make bonding easier - only one set of hormones to deal with! As suggested, a good rescue will make sure you get a good match for your remaining guinea.

 

[Merab]

How awful for you all. So sorry for your loss.

 

[Katiedid]

That’s so sad. However yes you can introduce an older one to a young one -my babies were 14 weeks when we introduced them to my 4 year old and my 5 year old.

 

[Betsy]

Often bonding a young piggy with an older one is better as the younger one has a roll model to show them what is safe to eat and it can make them more confident too.