Guinea pigs

[richteaftw]

Evening all

Really after some advice. I'm looking at adopting two boars, they are around 18m - 2 years, described as 'nervous but sweet boys'.

I have two children, ones nearly 3 and the other 7. Goes without saying they would never be left unsupervised with them.

Have currently got a 5ftx2ft hutch and run (also 5ftx2ft) in my shopping basket.

DH not overly happy about getting them but I've told him he will not be expected to lift a finger with them.

I grew up with rabbits and so did DH, we can't have a dog really as we have too much on. I want to be able to spend time with my eldest caring for the Guinea pigs, and I know he will lose interest and it will be me, but I would love to look after them.

Plan would be to keep them outside summer time, then bring them in during the winter.

Am I biting off more than I can chew? I can just imagine my children being delighted and them being a real joy to us. I know even DH will come round eventually.

TIA

I had an eglu and it went back. The inside area is much too small. Especially as you have two boys, they need to be able to find their own space or they’ll fight.

Indoor C&C is miles better if DH will let you! Loads of advice about them online.

I did the same, started out with my 2 boars in a hutch outside - realised it was much too small as do do run around, which they couldn't when one level had a ramp, (which they hated) taking up space. As others have said they need their own space as boys are territorial. So brought them in and they have happily been in a c&c in the dining room for 3 years now.

Got a good run in the garden - they were put out after work until it got dark today, a bit cooler by then. Lovely to see them pootling about munching and popcorning, so cute!

I don't find they smell, just need a good weekly cleanout. I use softshell fleece which is waterproof on one side and not thick like the usual fleece blankets - you can buy in strips, have a look on eBay. Easy to brush before washing and use a pet laundry bag so the hair and any bits of hay don't clog up and wreck your machine!

The Guinea Pig Forum is a wonderful resource and full of very knowledgeable piggy loving people, take a look!

Wishing you well with your gorgeous boars😊