What is the best way to pet a guinea pig

we just got our guinea pig today & we're getting another one tomorrow so she won't be lonely. we're trying to handle her as much as possible and introduce her to our 1 year old son. is there a right or wrong way to pet her?

Congrats on your new piggies! They are wonderful pets!

Regarding your one year old, be very cautious allowing your child access to the pig. If he tries to pick up the pig and accidentally drops her, it could be disastrous. Their little legs & spine are fragile and cannot withstand much of a fall at all. For your piggies' sake, only allow your son to pet them if they are sitting in YOUR lap. If you stick to this rule from the beginning, you shouldn't have any accidents.

When lifting a guinea pig, always support the pig from underneath the stomach area with one hand. With the other hand, support the rear end. They hate feeling like they're "dangling in the air". They will begin to panic & struggle if they think they might fall, so for this reason use a towel to carry your pig should you need to. I wrap mine like a baby to walk through the house and my piggies feel secure.

For your best interest, put a folded towel on your lap to catch any "accidents" while you're petting on your lap. Talk softly to your piggies, hand feed them treats, and always move s-l-o-w-l-y. Quick movements frighten them. Before long, you will develop a trusting relationship with your piggies and it is very endearing.