RSPCA Bryn Y Maen are looking for furever homes for five guinea pigs.
Bluey fever has hit RSPCA Bryn Y Maen Animal Centre who are searching for homes for a number of guinea pigs named after characters from the hit kids TV show.
Boys Bandit, Stripe and girls Bingo, Muffin (pictured) and Chilli – all named after the loveable and playful characters – are all awaiting forever homes after being taken into the care of the RSPCA. Let’s hope it won’t be too ‘trifficult’!
Animal Care Assistant Sarah Davies said: “We’re all big fans of Bluey here, and as guinea pigs are known for having such unique personalities – much like all the characters in Bluey – we thought it would be fun to name them after them!
“We’re now looking for special homes for them all to find their own ‘Bluey family’, as they all deserve a happy ever after due to previously experiencing a very overpopulated guinea pig home.
“They have lacked socialisation so they can be a bit nervous but thanks to our amazing staff and volunteers they are building up their confidence slowly and we hope this will all continue in their forever homes.”
Bingo – who is aged around three to six months – is on the nervous side and finds a lot of comfort from the adult girls – Muffin and Chilli who are aged two years old. Boys, Bandit and Stripe are also aged two and they get on great together.
Sarah added: “Muffin is the most confident and curious out of the herd and always loves to greet the staff and volunteers when they spend time within their enclosure.
“She is always seen with her best friend Chilli and we would really love for these two to stay together within a home environment.
“We feel Bandit and his brother Stripes (pictured) would also thrive in a quiet home together where they can build their confidence at their own pace. An initial gentle, hands-off approach will be crucial at the beginning to help them feel safe and secure.”
RSPCA small animal welfare expert Dominika Jagoda said: “Guinea pigs are incredible pets – with unique personalities.
“But owners also need to make sure the welfare needs of guinea pigs are catered for. Providing them with the right environment to live in and making sure that they are fed a suitable diet are both key to guinea pigs living happy and healthy lives.
“Enrichment such as toys, tunnels and plenty of hiding areas should be provided to allow them to perform natural behaviours and prevent boredom.
“Owners should spend time with their guinea pigs, and learn to understand their normal behaviours so they can spot signs of stress or illness and seek veterinary attention as necessary.
“It’s also important to remember that guinea pigs should not live alone, but it is instead best to take on single sex groups or pairs, or a male with one or more females. The males will need neutering prior to bonding with a female to prevent overbreeding, but it is less common to neuter females as the surgery is more complex.”
There is a wealth of information and advice on the RSPCA website to guide existing owners and anyone who may be considering adding guinea pigs to their family.
Before making a commitment to owning a guinea pig it is worth knowing that:
- They can live for five to six years and some may live longer
- Guinea pigs are active up to 20 hours per day, only sleeping for short periods
- They are highly social creatures – in the wild they live in family groups of five to 10
- They shouldn’t be kept alone – they’re happiest in pairs or small groups
- Guinea pigs need a high fibre diet – good quality hay should make up 85-90% of their daily intake – supplemented with vitamin C
If you are interested in Bandit and Stripe or Muffin, and Chilli or Bingo, please contact RSPCA Bryn Y Maen Animal Centre or fill out an online application form on Find A Pet.
