Bereaved dominant female

[Aga]

Unfortunately today I had to decide for euthanasia of my girl Nelly because of large tooth and jaw abscess. Can you please advise what to do with another pig? Lilly is almost 5 years old and she's very dominant, she constantly chased Nelly who was withdrawn and hiding from her reach almost all the time. They tolerated each other but there was no friendship.
I would rather not take another piggy. I am really afraid of bonding due to her agressive and dominant nature. Lilly is rather old and moving to another home would be very stressful for her. She doesn't show any signs of loss of Nelly. She behaves as usual, eats as usual, "talks to" us, jumps etc. Is it possible at all to leave her alone with us?

 

[Wiebke]

Unfortunately today I had to decide for euthanasia of my girl Nelly because of large tooth and jaw abscess. Can you please advise what to do with another pig? Lilly is almost 5 years old and she's very dominant, she constantly chased Nelly who was withdrawn and hiding from her reach almost all the time. They tolerated each other but there was no friendship.
I would rather not take another piggy. I am really afraid of bonding due to her agressive and dominant nature. Lilly is rather old and moving to another home would be very stressful for her. She doesn't show any signs of loss of Nelly. She behaves as usual, eats as usual, "talks to" us, jumps etc. Is it possible at all to leave her alone with us?

Hi

I am ever so sorry for having to make such a heartbreaking decision and for your loss.

Some older sows will not accept new companionship. Lilly rather sounds like it. Since you do not have rescue access in Poland and if you do not want to continue with next door guinea pigs, then yes, keeping her single is in your specific situation probably the best option. Please be aware that they may still suffer to some degree from lack of socialisation/stimulation from the own kind and that they are not necessarily not touched by a loss if they just go on as normal.

Here is some helpful advice for your own grieving and for Lilly:
Death, Dying, Terminal Illness; Human Grieving and Bereaved Companions: Information and Support for Owners and Their Children

Single Guinea Pigs - Challenges and Responsibilities (includes a chapter on how you can spot the signs of Lilly transferring her social species needs onto you)
Moody Guinea Pigs: Depression, Bullying, Aggression, Stress, Fear and Antisocial Behaviour