Guinea Pig Mother Eating Young?

[bruceandwillis]

I just started working at a rural petting zoo/farm in my area. When I heard they kept guinea pigs, I had a feeling the conditions would be below standards. On my second day working there, I decided to bring some fresh veggies to share between them. The majority of pigs almost acted as if they'd never seen lettuce before. I found out from another employee that they do not feed the pigs any Timothy hay, or even vegetables at that. That's when I noticed a cage with a single mother and three babies--one was dead, and having been half eaten.

I've seen other forums discussing how unlike hamsters, guinea pigs eating young was not normal behavior. I am wondering now if, because she wasn't getting enough nutrients, she resorted to eating her baby when it passed. Of course, as a guinea pig owner and lover, I am concerned about the wellbeing of these animals. However, as an entry level employee, I worry that if I confront management about my concerns, I will be labeIled as a pest, or too intrusive. It's a rough position I'm in right now, as I love my job (they take excellent care of all the other animal species), and I worry I'll risk losing it. Any advice from fellow owners out there?

 

[Janey]

Sorry I don't have much advice for you, but it's a difficult position you are in. Could you perhaps share with them that you've been doing some research on some of the animals and this is what you found out about piggies? I guess it depends on your relationship with your boss and if you think they are open to being educated.