Guinea Pigs/guinea pig

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Expert: Nicole Bury - 10/23/2009


Question
Hey,
I have had a guinea pig for about a week and was wondering how important it is for him to have a friend. I will be going to college in about 6 months and my father will be taking care of him while Im away. I spent a lot of time with him everyday and I am afraid that my dad won't be able to spend as much time with him when im gone. If i got another guinea pig for him to play with would it make the reduced lap time more bearable? Thanks alot.

Answer
Hello Caleb.
I had the same fear of my girl getting lonely when I went to university. I was lucky enough to have my own apartment, and she had her sister with her.
In your position I would definatly say, that if you are ready and willing, to get another piggy. Remember that it is best to act fast as you can, so that they can be friends by the time you leave (three months advance). I am sure your father will take great care of them, but guinea pigs are herd animals, remember that. I suggest going to my page and checking out some of my responses about indrouducing two piggys (There are alot!).

Hope this helps,
-Nicole

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Nicole Bury

Expertise

I can answer every question anyone has! I am always willing to hit the books for other owners! I and my husband between me have 6 guinea pigs and one expecting, that we intend to keep 2 of. I can help with idle questions, everyday problems to serious health problems but I always suggest seeing a vet!

Experience

I have had 14 guinea pigs in my life with more to come. I have volunteered at the local shelter just to work with the small animals on a weekly basis and I have been to countless vets to soak up there advice, as well as looking in my 50 something books on guinea pigs. I know almost everything I can wrap my head around about guinea pigs! Sometimes my husband, who is an exotic bird vet/guinea pig fanatic helps me with the questions to!

Organizations
None. Unfortunately ;)

Education/Credentials
I have taken community courses for pet care, including small animals, but I have not been to school formal education (I am not a vet). Currently I am in the process of becoming a published author and I have my degree in creative writing. Someday I will have my masters. I teach local classes for advanced creative writing and literature for teens.

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