new friend for 6 month old after sister died?

[hullabalou]

Hi there

New to these forums but would really like some advice so I hope someone can help!

My 6 month old sow, Bandit, died on Saturday. She had a bad ear infection when she was 2 months old and I don't think she ever really recovered. Her sister, Smokey, is now all alone, and at 6 months old I am thinking of getting her a new friend so that she doesn't spend the next 5+ years alone.

Is it a good idea to get her a friend? and if so how soon should i introduce? and should i find/rehome a pig closer to her age or will a younger pig get on with her?

Thanks in advance for any help!

 

[Rachel WD]

So sorry about Bandit.

Definitely get Smokey a friend, she'll feel lonely without her sister. Take her to a rescue and see who she makes friends with.

 

[Wiebke]

Hi!

I am so sorry for your loss; it must be hard for you to lose a piggy at such a young age!

Thankfully, sows can be bonded with other sows or neutered boars of any age at any age! At six months old, Smokey will be only too happy to get a new friend again. No guinea pig should ever have to live alone.

The very best thing you can do is ring around any rescues within your reach and find one you where can bring Smokey with you so she can make her own choice of who she wants as a friend. The choice may surprise you, but it is guaranteed to work! The good thing is that the initial meeting will be under expert supervision, so you can be sure that the bonding will work. Most rescues also do help with advice and support during the settling in period.

I have done that twice myself and successfully bonded once two three year old sows and once a 3 1/2 year old sow with a 12 month old neutered boar. Both were exceptionally loving relationships. In fact, the neutered boar is still with me and still has a very soft spot for mature ladies - despite the eight girls he is living with nowadays...

Here is a list of reputable guinea pig rescues in Britain:
http://www.guineapigrehome.org.uk/gp/centres.asp

Here is a collection of tips for introductions from our reference section where we have other useful threads on a range of issues:
http://www.theguineapigforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=38562

I wish Smokey and you the best of luck!

 

[clairelove]

where about are you?

 

[hullabalou]

i am in west london

 

[Wiebke]

There is a very good rescue in Reading which I have heard recommended on here: http://www.guineapigwelfare.org.uk/reading-guinea-pig-rescue/

Otherwise have a look on the link I have provided for a rescue closer to you.