Guinea pigs are usually chosen for a child as a pet because they are seen to be a 'low maintenance pet'. However guinea pigs need a lot more care and attention and the old way of keeping them in a small hutch at the end of the garden is an out of date practice. While guinea pigs are generally a gentle, placid creature there are a number of points any parent should consider before they give a child a guinea pig or indeed any other pet.
It is important that parents learn the basic care of guinea pigs and pass this knowledge onto their child. While I would highly recommend guinea pigs for children of all ages it is very important that parents supervise young children at all times. Some children can tire of their pets and it is up to the parents to take responsibility for the pet and to offer the pet a home for life.
Some points to consider before getting guinea pigs.
>Guinea pigs are sociable animals and must be kept in pairs, females can be kept in pairs or groups.
>They are a messy animal, they cannot be litter trained. They will mess in their food bowl and have no qualms about having a little accident on your knee. Never house a guinea pig on woodchips/wood shavings.
>For a pair of guinea pigs to live happily they will need a large house or pen and floor time. Guinea pigs can live 7 to 10 years.
>Your child will have great fun making tunnels and houses for them out of cardboard boxes.
>Help your child grow some tasty herbs as a treat on the window sill or in the garden, safe herbs include parsley, thyme, oregano, basil and rosemary. Wash all fresh foods well.
>Guinea pigs should be given a bath every two months (by an adult) children love to sit down and groom their guinea pigs on their lap.
>Take your child shopping for the guinea pigs fruit and veg, you would be surprised how many children begin to eat more greens when they see their guinea pigs enjoying it so much.
>Essential reading: Guinea Pig by Peter Gurney, Collins Family Pet Guides.
