G-Force, Are you Ready for a Guinea Pig?
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G-Force, Are you Ready for a Guinea Pig?
Disney’s latest 3D animated movie “G-Force” about a world rescuing team of guinea pig spies is expected to send demand for guinea pigs as pets into over-drive. Who can forget the craze for Dalmatians after Disney’s “101 Dalmatians?” Charmed by the movie, thousands of families were quick to buy Dalmatians only to abandon them to shelters and rescue groups shortly thereafter.
“G-Force” paints an exciting picture of guinea pigs walking on two legs, driving cars, talking, and living with other rodents in a tank. So what’s the problem, right? Everyone knows guinea pigs cannot talk , parachute, and use blowtorches obvious;y. Yes, that is true but many people will still get the impression that guinea pigs are convenient pets that are self maintaining and indestructible.
The reality is different. Guinea pigs make wonderful pets but they are certainly not self maintaining nor are they indestructible. Guinea pigs require large ventilated cages, food and light cage cleaning twice per day, and if not monitored, can get sick easily. Falls, even from short distances, can result in broken bones, paralyzed limbs, or death. Finally, guinea pigs should never be placed in hamster wheels or plastic balls as their spines are not flexible.
If you are thinking about adding a guinea pig to your family, please take some time to learn about guinea pig ownership or maintenance. A little pre planning and evaluation could go a long way towards keeping guinea pigs from being adopted only to be abandoned. Otherwise, if you want the lowest maintence pet possible may I suggest a stuffed guinea pig?
