Where should I go to get a guinea pig Are they a good childerns pet

Guinea pigs live on the average for 5 to 7 years, so think about how your lifestyle will be changing as a teen (going off to college, etc) before making the long commitment.

Among all the small rodents, guinea pigs are the most fragile medically. Colds, urinary infections, bladderstones, mites and teeth problems are a lot more common than in, say, hamsters or gerbils. Who will pay the vet bills? Do you have a source of income, or will your parents be willing to pay? These are things a responsible pet owner takes into account BEFORE getting the animal.

Also, guinea pigs should be kept indoors in a very large cage (see guineapigcages.com for great ideas on how to make your own!) Guinea pigs are highly susceptible to environmental changes and predators. Plus a guinea kept inddors will be much more sociable. Petstore cages are almost always TOO SMALL. Don't waste your money on them. You will also need bedding, an unlimited hay supply (guineas need them to keep their teeth in shape), a good plain pellet, and daily veggies with occasional fruit.

Please consider adoption! Petfinder.com, Craigslist, your local shelters, newspapers, advertisements at the vet office.petstore pigs are often harboring illness and can be mis-sexed. Plus you are supporting pet mills when you buy from a store.

Please read:

http://www.guinealynx.info/healthycavy.h...

www.cavyspirit.com

www.guineapigcages.com -not just cages! lots of good care advice