Grieving Pig Options

[tormor]

Yesterday I lost my chilli pig to pneumonia. He has left behind his friend Percy. They had already been separated a week due to chilli being ill. I have noticed that Percy is not himself, he's very quiet. Now I know I need to keep him separate from any other pigs for at least another week but here is my dilemma. I have 2 other boys, domino and spud they are 11 months old (Percy is 3 1/2) do I see if I can try them as a trio or should I just try and get Percy another pal? I understand that trio's can go badly wrong but also can work. Is there anyone out there with a trio? My other concern is Percy is a very passive pig and I'd worry about him getting bullied. I'm just not sure what would be the best option for him.

 

[piggyfan]

I would not risk bonding him with domino and spud in case it ruins their bond. I think the best thing to do is to take chili to a rescue were he can choose his own friend. They offer boar dating which means they will try chili with different boars until they find the right one for him.

 

[sport_billy]

I am so sorry to hear you list Chilli, I read your post in H&I

Trios can be tricky and you risk the chance of upsetting the others bond as Gigi has said above.

You have a excellent rescue near you:

Lumpy Lodge Rabbit and Guinea Pig Rescue
Benfield Valley
Portslade
Brighton and Hove, East Sussex BN41
07925 102482
www.lumpylodge.co.uk/3.html

I would contact them for advice, its a possibility that may offer a dating service.

Once again so sorry for your loss.

 

[worried val of york]

I am in the same boat as you. I recenty lost a guinea pig leaving his cage mate by himself. I have two other adult males who are happily bonded. I would not want to cause problems by trying to introduce my lone male with them. I will try and get another cage mate for him but in the meantime I am fussing him more than the other two as I know they are OK. Luckily he hasn't gone into major mourning mood but is eating. But I do ensure I give him extra treats as the last thing I want is for him to lose weight and become ill. I am finding it hard to find a cage mate as most rescues want to rehome in couples.

 

[Julie Hassall]

I am too in this position. My piggie Bart had to be put to sleep yesterday as he had cancer and I don't want to leave his cage mate Teddy alone for the rest of his life as he is only 2 and Bart was his half brother. Teddy also has lumps which have to be dealt with tomorrow at the vets. I feel I must get him sorted regarding that first as he probably will need an operation to have them removed and having a new partner will have to wait until after that. He is an un-neutered male and so was his mate. Should I be looking for the same again for a new mate?