Increase of Guinea Pigs

By Hope Bidegainberry on November 21, 2017

Over the last month and a half, the Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA (PHS/SPCA) has experienced a significant increase in the number of guinea pigs being surrendered to their shelter.

“We currently have twenty two guinea pigs in our care right now and one pregnant guinea pig that is ready to give birth any day now,” said PHS/SPCA Communications Manager Buffy Martin Tarbox. “These guinea pigs have been surrendered to us through no fault of their own and we are actively seeking new homes for them.”

Guinea pigs make great pets, especially for children.  Guinea pigs need hay, fresh water and vegetables and special food pellets formulated for them.  They do require a large cage lined with pine or paper-based bedding.  Guinea pigs on average live five to seven years and are known for their occasional unique squeals of delight and chattering.

“Guinea pigs can be exceptionally friendly and often squeal with delight when they see their owners,” according to Tarbox.  “They quickly bond to humans and given their overall interactive nature and lower maintenance care than a dog or cat, they make great pets.”

Adopters interested in meeting the guinea pigs available for adoption can visit PHS/SPCA’s Center for Compassion at 1450 Rollins Road in Burlingame.  The Center for Compassion is open seven days a week, Monday through Friday, 11 am to 7 pm and 11 am to 6 pm on the weekends.

The adoption fee is $15.00 per guinea pig and they are recommended for first time pet owners.

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