A new boar

[libbyoc]

I am a first time guinea pig owner. I got my guinea pig, Timmy around the end of April and he was about 8 to 12 weeks old.... So that would mean that he is an adolecent now.

Timmy is a very happy pig and he has a really big cage and I spoil him rotten. He purrs when I pet him and lays down when I stroke him. He wheeks when I come in the room and comes when I call him. Despite this, I wonder if I should get him another boar to play with and live with. The pigs at the store are all about 8 to 12 weeks old and are all males. I wonder if they will fight or if the younger pig will assume Timmy is the boss becuase he is a little older. I am also afraid that once my new pig gets old enough, he'll challenge Timmy and hurt him.

When I first bought Timmy, I had a small cage but have since made him a huge home that take up my room. There is plenty of room and I am planning on buying bales of hay and possibly a hutch for the pigs to play in when the weather is nice.

 

[libbyoc]

I have heard stories of boars not getting along but I have also heard great success stories too!

I just want to know if it is too late to get another pig or not. They are social animals and do better with a friend and I just want to make sure they are as comfortable as possible.

 

[Claire W]

You are right and guinea pigs do like other guinea pigs for company. I think your safest bet would be to go for a baby boy. 'IF' things didn't work out, would you have the option of housing them separate but next to each other where they would be able to still see and chat to each other? I only mention this just so you are prepared.

Is there a rescue in your area? There are lots of pigs in rescues crying out for homes and most rescues will allow you to take your pig along so they can choose their own friend.

There are many members on here who have successfully paired boars so I am sure someone will be able to advise you further

 

[Wiebke]

I would recommend contacting a rescue within your reach; they will help with the bonding and support during the settling in period, as they have every interest that their rescue piggies are not returned. They are also only rehoming healthy piggies.

Here is a list of reputable guinea pig rescues:
http://www.guineapigrehome.org.uk/gp/centres.asp

Here are two links about companionship which you might find informative and thought provoking:
http://www.guinealynx.info/companionship.html
http://www.theguineapigforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=37654