Pet Guinea Pigs Make Great First Pets for Children

Guinea pigs, which are equally frequently known as “cavies” were discovered and domesticated many millenia ago, and from that time they have been working their way into the hearts and homes of many people from around the globe. Cavies are adored for their affectionate and gentle character, and their amusing personalities. Pet guinea pigs can be found with an abundance of variations in their coat colors and textures. Cavies are loved as pets by both young children and adults alike.

Cavies love to sit on laps and be petted. They are just plain easy to care for and are not demanding. As with any domesticated pet they do have a few unique needs, including a safe and comfortable home and a loving and affectionate owner who’ll take time to hold and caress him or her.

Be Sure to do Your Research First

It really is only reasonable to your new pet that you complete your homework ahead of time and understand ahead of time about your pet cavy’s requirements as well as behaviors. As a responsible pet owner you should be aware that caring for pet guinea pigs requires a certain amount of planning, commitment, and time. Learning as much about cavies before you buy one will allow you to decide if keeping a guinea pig as a pet is compatible with your current way of life.

Will You Make a Good Cavy Owner?

There are several things to consider that will help you decide whether a cavy would make a good pet for you. How you live and what you do are critical considerations in determining if a cavy will fit into your life. Owning a pet is not always an easy thing. It requires a commitment over a long period of time. In the case of cavies this commitment means spending “snuggle” time with them on a regular and consistent basis. They will need veterinary care which requires financial resources. So prior to taking the plunge make sure that you are ready willing and able to do what must be done to provide a warm and caring home for these wonderful creatures.

Cavies and Young Children

Children love animals, and children particularly love pet guinea pigs. They are fuzzy, warm, soft, and gentle. They take pleasure in being cuddled and caressed, plus they seldom bite, although they may perhaps affectionately nibble on little fingers occasionally.

Children love to show their affection for their pet guinea pigs by hugging and kissing them. As hard hard as it may be, make sure that your children don’t accidently love your cavy to death. At times youngsters don’t realize just how fragile smaller pets can be and without realizing it they may squeeze them too hard and injure your cavy. Make sure that your children never pick up their cavy by the nape of it’s neck, or by it’s limbs or ears. Just teach your kids to be gentle and your guinea pig definitely will give back the affection.

Summary

Owning a couple of pet guinea pigs can create an excellent opportunity for adults to teach children about pets and the importance of humane care, and respect for all living things. Guinea pigs are excellent first pets given that they are usually not difficult to care for, plus they are extremely adoring and affectionate. Be good to your pet cavies and they will give you lots of love in return.

Bio/Resource

Guinea pigs are gentle creatures. Mike Andrews is a 52 year old native of native of Colorado, and has been a life-long animal lover and guinea pig enthusiast. Mike would like to see that all pet guinea pigs are properly cared for. He has written additional articles relating to pet guinea pigs on his webpage at http://www.petguineapigsinfo.com/pet-guinea-pigs.  Please visit his website at http://www.PetGuineaPigsInfo.com and check out his FREE 10 part mini-course on the proper care and raising of happy and healthy guinea pigs.