Question.

[Riggs Pigs]

Hello we have 3 guinea pigs. All female. 2 are 3 or 4 years old and one is 6 months. Because our other baby Gp died (see rainbow bridge pets) we are thinking when the two older ones die of old age our baby will be on its own for 3 years. So we think we will get it a baby friend now so they can bond and because our baby is big bossy it will learn that she is boss. My only question is though will the new baby need one of its sisters or not. Thanks.

 

[sport_billy]

Hello

First of all sorry for your loss of your piggy. I did see your thread in Rainbow Bridge section.

So at the moment you have 3 piggies? The youngest is six months and the other two are around 2 or 3yrs old? If you are going to add a fourth piggy I would indeed add a younger or baby one as I found introducing a young piggy the easiest. If you want to introduce two baby piggies you would need more space than for four piggies. Where were you thinking of getting your new piggies from?

 

[Riggs Pigs]

Well I I just get one new baby is that fine or will it need a sister with it as well. We get our gps from pets at home.

 

[sport_billy]

You can just get the one. In p@h the piggies are in groups not bonded pairs

have you thought about going rescue? Guinea Pig Rescue Centre Locator

 

[Riggs Pigs]

Sort of but the gps are a older and we don't want one which is going to fight

 

[Veggies Galore]

I agree with succession planning - but I have a different approach.

When I realised there was room in my hutch and room in my heart for another Guinea Pig , I set my heart on being able to offer a bereaved guinea pig a new forever home.

I had a neutered boar and 2 sows at the time .... so , I put myself on the waiting list at BARC for an older sow. I had to wait several months - but it was worth the wait. If you find a good rescue that offers a dating service , it is possible to bond older guinea pigs and, I can assure you, it is much more satisfying to offer an unwanted guinea pig a forever home than to buy from a pet shop.

 

[Wiebke]

Sort of but the gps are a older and we don't want one which is going to fight

Hi! Depending on the rescues you can get to, would you consider dating a neutered boar? He won't upset the existing sow hierarchy and he can act as the glue in the group. Most boars that are being neutered are sub-adults or young adults and not so far from your young girl's age. An age difference does actually not matter.

My five year old Tesni fell head over heels for 5 months old Gethin, and they are still very happy together. 3 year old Carwyn on the other side did learn how to popcorn and have fun with his baby wifelet; they have been together for nearly a year now. Mutual liking comes very much before age, as long as your guinea pigs can choose each other to become a happy group.
Guinea Pig Rescue Centre Locator