This may come as a surprise to some of you, but I really, really love guinea pigs. Ever since a past girlfriend and I had our first cavy (guinea pig), I have been hooked. Being an animal lover, I've had all kinds of pets over the years, but guinea pigs are my favorite.
Guinea pigs are fantastic and it's not their fault that they need a better Public Relations agent. Nobody likes being called a guinea pig.
Guinea pigs are so different from hamsters and other smaller pet rodents in that they are smart enough to recognize the sound of you coming home or the refrigerator door opening. Once they learn to recognize and hear the refrigerator door or the rustle of a plastic bag, they go crazy happy, jumping (called popcorning) and squeaking like mad. When happy, they also purr loudly like a kitten.
Anyway, Cavy Spirit is a guinea pig rescue, specializing in guinea pigs and guinea pigs only. Not only do they have adoptables, but they genuinely care and truly take the time to educate you and make sure that they are going to a good home. The owner, Teresa, and all her assistants are downright wonderful and have done more for guinea pigs and the knowledge of guinea pigs than anyone I've ever known. I love all the little guinea pig knick-knacks they have on display too.
Traditional store bought cages are small and inhumane, so they will show you how to make a proper cage yourself using cubes and coroplast. These cages make a world of difference and allow the cavies to run around and in general lead a far more healthier, happier life. Not only that, but even they cost less than store bought! In my opinion, it's the only way to go.
I have two guinea pigs at home and they live in an open top cage that size-wise is only slightly smaller than a full size house door laid flat. I only use the very best (expensive!) Carefresh bedding and they get only the very best guinea pig food and organic fruits and veggies.
Per above, Cavy Spirit has a great website too which even shows those available for adoption. The site is very responsible and explains how adoption is at least a seven year commitment and what you're getting into. Also, adoption is always done in pairs. At first, I wondered why, but now I realize that unlike humans, two guinea pigs really buddy up and become the very best of friends. It's pretty amazing.
Lastly, after the adoption process, the agreement even says something to the effect that if you should ever tire of the pigs, then you should bring them back to her. That says it all.
If you're into guinea pigs, Cavy Spirit guinea pig rescue is the way to go. Like their website says: Adopt...Don't shop. Don't breed or buy while shelter animals die.
Guinea pigs rock and so does Cavy Spirit! read more