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Loss of a pig

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BlueFlame

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I had 4 pigs, two sets of cage mates. I had Bernadette and Penny first and Penelope and Lyla a year or so later. This morning I woke up and Bernadette had passed. I changed the bedding in the cage and threw away all the chew toys before putting Penny back in. I'm worried about her though. Previously, the two bonded pairs, which have cages right beside each other, did not get along. Should I wait a week or two and try to put them together? I'm just unsure and sad. If anyone could help I would appreciate it.
 
I'm sorry for your loss @BlueFlame . A change in numbers could mean it might worth so it's worth a try. Or finding Penny a new friend. Good luck :hug:
 
BlueFlame said:
I had 4 pigs, two sets of cage mates. I had Bernadette and Penny first and Penelope and Lyla a year or so later. This morning I woke up and Bernadette had passed. I changed the bedding in the cage and threw away all the chew toys before putting Penny back in. I'm worried about her though. Previously, the two bonded pairs, which have cages right beside each other, did not get along. Should I wait a week or two and try to put them together? I'm just unsure and sad. If anyone could help I would appreciate it.
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Hi and welcome!

I am very sorry for your loss. You are welcome to post a tribute to Bernadette in our Rainbow Bridge section if you'd like to.

Give Penny time to grieve, but step in asap if she is pining acutely (stopping to eat and drink) and have her vet checked if you do not know what her companion has died off (most likely a heart attack, sudden acute heart failure or a stroke).
Looking After A Bereaved Guinea Pig

Once she is OK in herself and open to new company, you can try a formal introduction on neutral ground and see how it goes; just don't try to stick her in with the others as she will be perceived as an intruder.
It is always much easier when you can find a solution with your existing piggies but they have their own ideas, so you cannot force it.
Bonding: Illustrated Dominance Behaviours And Dynamics

If it doesn't come off, the best place to find a new companion of Penny's liking (whether that is a neutered boar or a sow of any age) is a good standard rescue that offers dating under expert supervision. You come home with a new friend that is healthy, correclty sexed and guaranteed not pregnant only if acceptance has happened. Mutual liking and not age is key to any happy piggy bond. If you can get to one, please do and contact any that you can get to!
Recommended UK rescues: Guinea Lynx :: Rescue Organizations
Recommended rescues in some other countries: Guinea Lynx :: Rescue Organizations

All the best!
 
I would give her a short time by herself then put the other piggy in with the others. She will go in even better if they had a divider between the 2 groups, so they chatted & could see each other.
 
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