Adoption is a rewarding way to become a pet parent, but cats and dogs aren’t the only pets in shelters looking for forever homes. There’s a whole range of pets available for adoption, including guinea pigs and rabbits.
Good things come in small packages, and this is definitely true when it comes to guinea pigs and rabbits. As any animal lover will tell you, these small pets have big hearts and wonderfully playful personalities. They’re wonderful additions to the family.
Adopting a guinea pig or rabbit is a big step. To ensure your new friend’s health and wellbeing it’s important to be prepared and knowledgeable about how to care for them.
Note: you should never house guinea pigs and rabbits together.
Here’s what you need to know to help your new friend settle in.
Preparing for your new guinea pig or rabbit
Before your new family member arrives home, research how big their hutch needs to be. Hutch requirements differ for rabbits and guinea pigs.
Decide where your new pet is going to live – will they reside inside or outside? If outside, you’ll need to ensure their home is in a suitable spot that’s sheltered from excessive heat, wind and rain. If inside, ensure this space isn’t too noisy, as this could cause anxiety.
Stock up on the essentials, such as toys, food and water dispensers, and bedding, and ensure they have their own comfy little space to nest in. A high-quality diet that’s rich in vitamins and nutrients will also be required.
Don’t forget to buy a safe and suitable carrier for transporting your pet home and to the vet.
Settling in
Once your new pet is ready to come home with you, there are steps you can take to ensure they settle in quickly and easily.
First of all, when you get them home, give them space. Place them in their new home with lots of cosy bedding, so that they can get their bearings and burrow down if feeling overwhelmed. Ensure they have access to plenty of high-quality food and fresh water, as well as any other requirements for your chosen pet.
Give them enough time to adjust during this process. Avoid handling them for at least the first few days, until they get used to their new environment. Any handling during this time may make them feel anxious, so move slowly.
After the adjustment period you can begin handling your new pet. Remember to always be gentle and follow your vet’s advice when it comes to caring for your new pet, and they’ll feel right at home in no time. Just keep in mind that children should be supervised when handling a guinea pig or rabbit.
You can find small animals, such as guinea pigs and rabbits, from select Petbarn Adoption Centres and animal rescues nationwide.
If you need more help preparing for your new rabbit or guinea pig, Ask your local Petbarn staff member for advice.