Guinea pigs rarely bite or scratch, but there can be messy-scattering food, water and bedding all over their cages. Their vocabulary includes about nine sounds, from whistling to purring to squealing. They are most active at dusk and dawn, but easily adjust to the routine of your household. Watching Guinea pigs is fun. They like to explore new settings, but if scared, they’ll either freeze or scatter in different directions. With good care, guinea pigs live up to 12 years, with about six or eight years being the average. By learning all you can about your new pet; providing him with a clean home, a nutritious diet, and expert veterinary care; and giving him lots of love and affection, you can help Piggy enjoy a healthy, happy life. Here are some useful tips to find a perfect veterinarian for your pet.
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- Letting your fingers do the walking may be one of the easiest ways to find someone who is willing to work on exotic pets, but phone book listings don’t, in any way, qualify a veterinarian. Remember that, in the phone book, it is not a person’s credentials that dictate the listing; it’s the marketing budget.
- Searching the web using the key Jobs for Vet Techs may reveal qualified veterinarians in your area. Several search engines also have vet locators to help you find a veterinarian. If you cannot find a veterinarian in your area, search for local small mammal organizations. Often, these will have lists of veterinarians in your area experienced in the care of small mammals.
- If you live in a large city, there almost certainly will be a handful of exotic animal veterinarians from which you can choose. But if you’re in a rural location, the only available veterinarians may see far more cows and horses than they see hamsters. In that case, look for a veterinarian who is willing to learn. If your veterinarian is willing to make some phone calls and get some consultations, that usually indicates an interested, concerned and caring veterinarian. Once you’ve identified a potential care provider, visit the hospital and make sure you’re comfortable with what you see. You can’t expect one veterinarian to be available seven days a week, 24 hours a day.
- Question your veterinarian. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Most vets focus on cats and dogs, which are animals that are more common. Ask if anyone in the office specializes in exotic animals, specifically guinea pigs. If they do not, they may be able to refer you to someone who can help. If you question a specific treatment, don’t allow them to brush you off. Make sure all your questions are answered.
