Sometimes, due to unforeseen circumstances, you may need to surrender your guinea pigs. It’s important to ensure they go to a safe, loving environment where they will be cared for properly. In the United States, there are several options available for surrendering guinea pigs, including animal shelters, rescues, and small pet sanctuaries. Here’s a guide to help you find the best option for your situation.
1. Local Animal Shelters
Your local animal shelter or humane society is often the first place to consider when looking to surrender a guinea pig. Many shelters have facilities for small animals and experienced staff who understand the needs of guinea pigs.
- How to Find a Shelter: Search for local animal shelters by using websites like Petfinder or Humane Society. These sites can help you locate nearby shelters that accept guinea pigs.
- Contact Ahead: Call ahead to confirm they have space and are equipped to handle guinea pigs. Some shelters may have waiting lists or may not be equipped to care for small animals.
- Surrender Process: Be prepared to fill out a form detailing your guinea pig’s health, diet, and behavior. Some shelters may also require a small surrender fee.
2. Guinea Pig Rescues and Small Animal Rescues
Dedicated guinea pig rescues are the best option as they specialize in the care, rehabilitation, and adoption of guinea pigs.
- Specialized Care: These rescues have volunteers who are well-versed in guinea pig care, and they ensure that the animals are adopted into homes that understand their specific needs.
- How to Find Rescues: Use websites like Guinea Pig Finder and Petfinder to locate guinea pig rescues in your area.
- Popular Guinea Pig Rescues:
- Metropolitan Guinea Pig Rescue (Virginia, Maryland, DC area)
- Los Angeles Guinea Pig Rescue (California)
- Wee Companions Small Animal Adoption (San Diego, California)
- Piggles Guinea Pig Rescue (New Jersey)
- Surrender Process: Each rescue will have its own procedure, often requiring you to contact them via phone or email to discuss surrendering. Some may ask for a surrender fee or donation.
3. Small Animal Sanctuaries
If you’re looking for a no-kill option where your guinea pig can live out the rest of their life, a small animal sanctuary might be an option.
- Long-Term Care: Sanctuaries are dedicated to providing long-term care for animals that may not be adopted.
- Limited Availability: These places can be hard to find and often have limited space due to the commitment to lifetime care. They may prioritize animals in dire situations.
- How to Find a Sanctuary: Search online for small animal sanctuaries in your area, or ask local rescues or veterinarians for recommendations.
4. Veterinary Clinics
Some veterinary clinics, particularly those specializing in exotic pets or small animals, may have resources or connections to local rescues, sanctuaries, or foster homes.
- How to Use This Option: Contact your vet or local clinics to ask if they have any programs for rehoming small pets or if they know of any reputable rescues that can take in guinea pigs.
5. Rehome Through Online Platforms
If you’d prefer to rehome your guinea pig directly, consider using reputable online platforms where you can screen potential adopters.
- Adopt-a-Pet: This platform partners with the Petco Foundation to help individuals rehome pets.
- Craigslist and Local Facebook Groups: Use caution with these options. Always screen potential adopters to ensure they have experience with guinea pigs and are committed to proper care.
6. Pet Stores with Adoption Programs
Some pet stores, like Petco and PetSmart, have adoption programs where they partner with local shelters and rescues. They may allow you to surrender guinea pigs for rehoming, but policies can vary by location.
- Call Ahead: Contact local pet stores to see if they accept surrenders through their adoption programs.
Things to Consider Before Surrendering
- Health Check: Ensure your guinea pig is healthy or be upfront about any medical conditions to avoid spreading illness.
- Supplies: Consider donating the guinea pig’s cage, bedding, and food to the rescue or shelter to help with care.
- Surrender Fees: Many places charge a small surrender fee to help cover the cost of caring for the animal.
Conclusion
Finding a safe place to surrender your guinea pigs in the USA requires some research and careful consideration. Whether it’s through a local animal shelter, a dedicated guinea pig rescue, or a small animal sanctuary, make sure the place you choose has the resources and knowledge to provide the care they deserve. Always contact organizations ahead of time to ensure they have space and to understand their surrender process.