Pig-sitting (not literally)

Dear readers

I'm currently away from Flora for a few days. Luckily, my wonderful boyfriend has agreed to care for Flora until my return.

I've had much luck securing guinea pig sitters in the past while (namely my boyfriend, house-mate and family). Though I'm aware it's not always easy to find responsible pet caregivers.

Perhaps a solution to this common problem would be a local pet-sitting website; a social medium to provide pet owners a pool of willing pet caregivers. Centralizing the process of temporary pet care would be more efficient for all.

Would you support a similar initiative?

Yours truly

Sarah

The Power of Pets

Hello, readers

Over the past few years I've owned several pets, including Flora the guinea pig. Each small animal has left a unique impression upon me. Although so very small, they each possessed strong character and personality. My pets often define periods in my life, and when I look back on our time together I remember the best memories of these times.

Have you had similar experiences? Has a special animal left pawprints on your heart?

Yours truly


Sarah

Guinea Pig History X

Hello, readers

While researching guinea pigs, I was surprised to learn that they did not evolve naturally. This Wikipedia page explains the process much more eloquently.

Also on the mentioned page is a photo of a cat and its guinea pig friends. Has anyone ever done any inter-species experimentation? I've read various (many grisly and unsuccessful) accounts of guinea pigs being paired with rabbits, mice and hamsters. I'm not sure about cats, though. Some friends of ours are looking to re-home their cat because of health reasons. Although I'm worried that the introduction of a cat would be very stressful for Flora, apparently I may be incorrect. Any thoughts? Even insight into living with cats and dogs would be appreciated.

Yours truly



Sarah

Do your pigs run?

Good morning, readers

A few nights ago, Flora exhibited some very unusual behaviour. While out of her cage for some exercise, she began darting around our couch! And not just one circuit of the couch was completed; she ran around several times until I came to see what was happening. She had never exhibited this behaviour before and my boyfriend Gary and I were thoroughly amused. Her pads don't seem to be bothering her!

Have your pigs ever behaved this way?

Sincerely


Sarah

Current pad situation

Hello, all


Here is the current state of Flora's pads. Notice they appear slightly irritated and chapped. Sometimes they show a more red colouring. This pretty accurately represents their "average" condition.

Is this common to your guinea pigs as well?



Sincerely



Sarah