~ Pigonia the Guinea Pig ~

Pigonia is an Abyssinian guinea pig.  Guinea pigs are named by their hair coat ? Abyssinians have the short coat that grows in whorls.

Pigonia was found in the field behind the practice by Libbie, our Animal Caregiver, while she was walking a dog, on March 28, 2011.  She would not have done well in the 40 degree, very rainy weather that we had that evening, as they need temperatures around 65.  They do not tolerate heat well.

Guinea pigs live in South America, where they serve as a food source.   We have no intention of eating Pigonia, ever.

Guinea pigs natural weapon is the flight or freeze response.   If frightened, they will become immobile or make explosive attempts to escape.  These sudden moves can result in injury if they are dropped.

Guinea pigs are born running around, much like foals.  They nurse for at least 5 days to 3 weeks.  Females need to give birth before they are six months old to prevent their hips from fusing, which will result in dystocia.  Puberty occurs when they are two to three months old.  They live about 5-6 years, on average.

Guinea pigs need a source of vitamin C at all times (just like people).  Without it, they can get scurvy !

Guinea pigs make a wonderful first pet - they are cute, and make lots of fun squeaks, chirps and whistles.  They enjoy being handled gently.  They rarely bite, and any scratches are inadvertent.  They can be very messy, especially when active.

Gross Fact :  Guinea pigs eat their own poop ? that hard pallet you see on the bottom of the cage is the second time that the food has passed through.  Remember that when you kiss your pig on the lips.

Stop Press:   Pigonia was pregnant when found in the field, and gave birth to 4 beautiful piglets on Friday May 6^th, at around 4:10pm !   All 4 babies are doing well and running all over the place !   Mom is doing great and will nurse for upto 2 weeks.  

1)  All black,  male.

2)  All chocolate,  male.

3)  Black & White,  female.

4)  Tri-color,  male.