Cage mate questions

[kales]

Ok so I got my guinea pig 4 days ago. I've been taking it easy with her as she settles in. She is 3 yrs old and as far as I know never had a cage mate.
When would it be safe to slowly introduce a cage mate? Should I wait a few weeks since we just got her? I would like to rescue a sow or neutered male, but I never see neutered boys around so most likely getting another girl. Is there an age range I should be looking at for the new one?
I had 2 boars about 6 years ago I introduced and they were best of buds, but not sure what age range works best with the girls.
Thanks

 

[Guinea pig slave]

Sow dating at a rescue would be the best option - your girl could then chose her own friend, male or female to bring home

 

[kales]

Is there a certain age I should be looking for in a cage mate?

 

[Wiebke]

Hi! Which country are you in?

Here in Britain, there is the possibility to "sow date" at a reputable rescue, letting your girl make the choice who she likes best as a sowfriend or "husboar" (i.e. a neutered boar). Age is immaterial if they can choose - the key is that they click. I have had success that way several times with bereaved sows of that age of my own, both with bonding with similar aged sows and neutered boars. However, not every single sow will take to another piggy, so dating is by far the best way, as you come home with a companion only if there has been success.
Here is a map of recommendable rescues in Britain (with links to their websites): https://maps.google.co.uk/maps/ms?msid=209994852075231951564.0004b8fd9391b4257d8eb&msa=0

It is more difficult in another country, as it is not as easy to find a place that will allow your girl to find her new friend. In this case, it is generally better to go for a youngster. Please make sure that you only take on a sow that has not been with boars (including brothers) over the age of 3 weeks; sadly many shop sows and often breeders sows can be pregnant at a very young age. If you can go rescue, please do so!
Here is a list of rescues in other countries; it is by far not exhaustive. http://www.guinealynx.info/rescues.html

PS: We would be very grateful if you would put your country and state (US) or county (UK) in your details. you can do that by going to User CP/edit profile/location. It is much easier to give the appropriate advice and links as this is an international forum.