We had two boys that are 20 weeks and have always been together. Sadly we just lost one. Bubble had been ill with a bladder infection and seemed to pick up but sadly died today. Squeek the other one is playful and seems lost with his friend. Do I get another one, especially as he is so young. If so when, and how do I do it? Thanks for any suggestions
Hi and welcome!
I am very sorry for your loss!
Key to any successful boar bond (or any guinea pig bond) is mutual liking and character compatibility.
By far the best place to find a new boarfriend (age is less important than they get on) is a good rescue that offers boar dating under expert supervision so you come home with a new mate only if acceptance has happened. By adopting from a good standard rescue with mandatory quarantine/vet care, you can also be assured that you do not have to quarantine as only healthy guinea pigs are put up for adoption.
Unfortunately in the English speaking world anybody can call themselves a rescue without licensing or regular checks (the same goes for breeders, by the way), and the results can be accordingly. In the US, shelters usually do not provide any medical care.
You can find lists for rescues in several countries we can guarantee for that you and your boy are in safe and experienced hands in our bereavement guide.
The other option would be neutering. Your boy is now at an age where his testicles start descending. He would have to go through a 6 weeks post-op wait before he is safe to go with any sows, but cross gender bondings are the most stable of them all.
Please take the time to read these guides here. You will hopefully find them helpful and informative.
Looking After A Bereaved Guinea Pig
Neutered / De-sexed Boars And Neutering Operations: Myths And Facts
What to check and look out for in new guinea pigs (vet checks, sexing, parasites&illness) (if you get guinea pigs from another place than a rescue with a quarantine)
Bonding: Illustrated Dominance Behaviours And Dynamics
Since we have members and enquiries from all over the world, we find it very helpful if you please added your country, state/province or UK county to your details so we can always tailor any advice to what is relevant and available where you are straight away. Click on your username on the top bar, then go to account details and then down to location. This makes it appear with every post you make and saves everybody time. Thank you!
