Distressed piggie

[All4Ginger]

Hi all, a few days ago the neighbour's dogs got into our garden and the guinea pigs' outdoor cage killing one of our two 3yo piggies, Bubbles. When I found them and chased them away they were trying to get his brother, Ginger, who was hiding in the enclosed bit on the upper level after completely breaking through the metal bars on the bottom level). I immediately removed Ginger from that cage and went and bought a new indoor cage and my 13yo daughter has been dealing with her grief by spending a lot of time with Ginger out on her bed and on the sofa however he is constantly clicking his teeth when moved or left alone in his cage and he only comes out of his house to eat or drink. What can I do to help him adjust to his new home and life without his brother?

 

[Piggies&buns]

I am so sorry for your loss. That is an awful thing to happen.

He will understandably be nervous about what has happened. Keeping the cage covered with a blanket for a few days can help him to get used to his new cage and feel less anxious about his surroundings. Guinea pigs are social animals though so being bonded with a new friend (when you are ready, but do be aware that guinea pigs grief is different to ours and he will be ready for a new friend sooner than you would feel ready for a new piggy) will help him feel more secure in the long term. In the meantime, keep a eye on him for signs of depression and loneliness such as stopping eating and step in if necessary if he does stop eating (by syringe feeding him).

 

[Bill & Ted]

I can only say so sorry for your loss, how absolutely terrible this has happened x

 

[Wiebke]

Hi all, a few days ago the neighbour's dogs got into our garden and the guinea pigs' outdoor cage killing one of our two 3yo piggies, Bubbles. When I found them and chased them away they were trying to get his brother, Ginger, who was hiding in the enclosed bit on the upper level after completely breaking through the metal bars on the bottom level). I immediately removed Ginger from that cage and went and bought a new indoor cage and my 13yo daughter has been dealing with her grief by spending a lot of time with Ginger out on her bed and on the sofa however he is constantly clicking his teeth when moved or left alone in his cage and he only comes out of his house to eat or drink. What can I do to help him adjust to his new home and life without his brother?

Hi and welcome!

I am very sorry for your loss. It is the most upsetting experience. We last childhood piggies that way when a neighbour's dog managed to wiggle through a badly maintained fence of theirs and break into a supposedly safe lawn run with a firm wood framed mesh topping, so I really feel for you!

Please give Ginger time to get over the trauma and his grieving. Make sure that he is vet checked and OK as internal injuries from shaking can easily happen. Guinea pigs can die from sheer fright, too.
Here our tips on what you can do for him:
Looking After A Bereaved Guinea Pig
Understanding Prey Animal Instincts, Guinea Pig Whispering And Cuddling Tips

If you can, please consider a new companion as Ginger is only about halfway through a normal life span. Our UK recommended UK rescues mostly offer boar dating at the rescue to find a character compatible boar and some offer residential dating for bonding boars of all ages with each other. The resulting bond is as stable as a sow bond.
As only a few rescues have the time resources to this, there can be waiting lists for the latter.
Recommended Guinea Pig Rescues

 

[furryfriends (TEAS)]

I think you need to get George checked by a vet. He may have got injured whilst getting away from the dog.

 

[Merab]

I am so sorry to read this .
What a horrible thing to happen.
Please look after yourselves as well as Ginger - grief takes time so be gentle and patient with yourselves.
Excellent advice already given for caring for Ginger.
Let us know how things go for him and you over the next few days.

Welcome to the forum- you will find this a great place for support

 

[Sophie B]

I’m so sorry for your loss, what a horrible thing to happen, please consider a friend for your other piggy