As veterinarians, we are well aware of the importance of understanding the unique needs of every animal we care for, yet guinea pigs remain one of the UK’s most misunderstood pets. Guinea Pig Awareness Week (GPAW), now in its fourth year, is helping to address this issue by raising awareness of the five welfare needs of guinea pigs and encouraging adoption and rehoming. This year’s theme, Nibble, Nourish & Thrive, highlights the significance of proper nutrition and care in ensuring these beloved pets live happy, healthy lives.

The Five Welfare Needs

Recognising the need to educate guinea pig owners, GPAW focuses on the five welfare needs, which are crucial for guinea pigs' well-being:

1. Environment – Guinea pigs require a spacious, safe, and stimulating environment to live and thrive. As a vet, it’s essential to emphasise the importance of adequate housing that allows them to move around and explore, ideally with an outdoor run for fresh air and exercise.

2. Diet – Proper nutrition is vital, with hay and grass making up most of their diet. Guinea pigs also require daily fresh vegetables and a source of Vitamin C. This year’s theme, Nibble, Nourish & Thrive, underscores the importance of a balanced diet.

3. Companionship – Guinea pigs are social creatures and should always be kept in pairs or groups. Educating pet owners about this is key to preventing loneliness and behavioural issues.

4. Health – Regular veterinary check-ups and monitoring for signs of illness are essential. Conditions such as dental disease and respiratory infections are common in guinea pigs.

5. Behaviour – Understanding guinea pigs' natural behaviours helps owners provide enriching activities and the right environment, ensuring their pets remain content and stress-free.

Raising Awareness & Promoting Adoption

As GPAW continues to grow, the campaign highlights the importance of adoption and rehoming guinea pigs. Many guinea pigs are abandoned or neglected, and promoting rescue centres and responsible rehoming practices is vital for their welfare. Encouraging owners to adopt rather than buy from breeders helps reduce the number of unwanted guinea pigs.

Join the Discussion: Guinea Pig Welfare Needs Webinar

As part of GPAW, we invite you to attend a special webinar titled Guinea Pig Welfare Needs, sponsored by Burgess Excel. This session will explore how the welfare needs of guinea pigs can be met by both owners and veterinary professionals. We’ll dive into the consequences of poor husbandry practices and discuss practical steps for improving guinea pig care, both at home and in veterinary clinics.

Veterinarians play a critical role in educating guinea pig owners on proper care. By participating in GPAW and sharing the resources available, you can help improve the welfare of these often-overlooked pets. Make sure to check out the resources on the Guinea Pig Alliance website and get involved in raising awareness during this important week.

Conclusion

Guinea Pig Awareness Week is an opportunity for veterinarians to engage with guinea pig owners and advocate for better care practices. By focusing on the five welfare needs and promoting adoption, we can help these small but significant pets thrive. Let’s make this year’s Nibble, Nourish & Thrive campaign a turning point in guinea pig welfare!