guinea pig leash
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Guinea pig leash
Image by Roxanne Cooke via Flickr
Image by Roxanne Cooke via Flickr
Many new guinea pig owners get the impression that guinea pigs can be walked on leashes. Why is this? I believe its because these kinds of accessories are frequently found in pet stores. Obviously, if you see something for sale in a pet store – you would assume it is safe, right? Sadly – no.
The first problem with leashes is the harness that come with them. Most of these harnesses are not made for guinea pigs. Instead, most small harnesses are made for ferrets, who have different body size and makeup than guinea pigs. Many guinea pigs can easily escape from harnesses and as such, it is simply not safe to use them outdoors where you guinea pig could escape.
Additionally, guinea pigs have a very delicate spine. This is why exercise wheels, balls, and leashes should not be used – they place pressure on the spine. Any kind of yanking or pulling can cause your piggie’s spine to bend in ways it is not intended to.
If you do want to play with your guinea pig outdoors, consider building a covered outdoor play area instead.
