What to do when one of a pair dies?

Jeniva

Jeniva

Junior Guinea Pig
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Hello all,
I had a pair of guinea pigs which one was the mother the other the daughter. They're both quite elderly, around 6 years ish (unsure as they were rescues). Tonight the mother died during a stone removal operation. : (
Now I'm at a loss as what to do with her daughter. She's left alone and of course they're social animals. I don't want the never ending cycle of piggies any more. I've had a good few years with different guinea pigs and think the time is to stop. Do I give her to a rescue or try and re home here elsewhere? I would only want her to go to a good home that she can be with other guinea pigs.
I just feel bad now she's alone and want her to enjoy the rest of her life with other piggies.

Any advice and/or tips will be appreciated.
 
If you have a rescue near you you might be able to do a long term foster whereby you take in a piggy to keep yours company but then return them to the rescue when your own piggy passed away which could still be some time yet. I've always thought this is a nice way to see out a beloved pigs twilight years without getting into the cycle you refer to
 
So sorry for your loss. At Ayrs guinea pig rescue we have a small Herd of resident female piggies who are either Elderly or have ongoing health issues. Maybe there is somewhere near you who does the same if you fostering a piggie isn't an option.
 
I dont mind the idea of fostering a piggie. I love my girl who is remaining and it will be heartbreaking to see her go - but I want her to have a friend without me getting into the endless cycle of pigs.
 
I'm so sorry for your loss. :( You have a couple of options, depending on where you are. Fostering is a great option if that's available to you. I now I would be reluctant to adopt out an older pig who you love- yes, she would gain a pig friend, but she would lose the home she's known. Given her age, if fostering isn't possible I guess you could consider keeping her as a solo pig with a doting human, although of course pig company is preferred. Best of luck with your options and so sorry for your loss again!
 
I would try and contact rescues in your area and see if any of them would be prepared to 'loan' you a piggy.
It is quite common here in Switzerland, and I know of several places that will lend you a rabbit or guinea pig to provide companionship for an exisiting pet, but without you having to commit to keeping more guinea pigs forever.
 
Oh I am so sorry you lost her. I think fostering a piggie would be a good idea, this means you have company for your surviving piggie and you are helping a rescue and freeing up a place for a new needy piggie too x
 
You can also adopt a guinea pig the same age as her from a rescue or foster as everyone suggests.
 
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