Ricky Died And I Got A New Guinea But Can't Get Over Ricky

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Natalia

Natalia

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My Guinea pig died over the holidays, and few days ago I got a new, cute baby guinea pig, but when I can't sleep because I miss him so much and I can't enjoy the new piggy. I even told my partner that I don't want the new piggy, I want one looking exactly like Ricky. It breaks my heart...
 
Natalia said:
My Guinea pig died over the holidays, and few days ago I got a new, cute baby guinea pig, but when I can't sleep because I miss him so much and I can't enjoy the new piggy. I even told my partner that I don't want the new piggy, I want one looking exactly like Ricky. It breaks my heart...
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I am very sorry; it can take a while to get over a loss! No guinea pig can ever replace another, as each has their very own unique bond and nest in your heart. It is very normal to struggle with a new arrival, as well meaning a gesture as it is, at this stage.
Please consider using a free pet bereavement line to have somebody trained, but uninvolved ready to listen to you with an open and understanding mind, but also to help you find your own way to constructively cope with your loss. Some forum members who struggled badly with losing a beloved piggy of their own have found it very helpful.
SupportLine - Problems: Pet Bereavement: Advice, support and information

I would also recommend to start a diary about your feelings. But also write down all your memories of Ricky, the little and the big ones, as and when they come into your mind. Over time you will hopefull see a change but also realise how much of him is still there in your heart and your remembrance - and by writing it down, it can never be taken away from you!

Please either get your little baby a same sex mate for company (piggies are not wired to be on their own, especially babies are desperate for another of their kind) until you are ready for a very different new journey, which may take a while - you do not want her to suffer in the meantime while you are still unable to have any feelings about her. That will come in its own time and be nothing like your bond with Ricky, but perfectly valid in its own way. There are as many ways to love as there are pets and people.

Or contact Wheek and Squeak Guinea Pig Rescue near Southampton; they are your closest good rescue to make sure that she in safe hands if you feel that you cannot cope at all.
New and Wannabe Guinea Pig Owners Corner
Guinea Pig Rescue Centre Locator
 
Natalia said:
My new piggy

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Even if u found a piggy that looked like Ricky it still wouldn't feel better. They are all individual, with different characters. The way I would try and look at it, is that if u loved Ricky that much, then you can offer love to another. In time you will develop a bond, it may not be exactly the same but I guarantee this little baby will help u as long as you don't place expectations of your other piggy on him. Hope it works out for you. You have a beautiful little baby there and it sounds like you could be a great mum to him. x
 
I'm so sorry about Ricky, it will get easier. Try not to reject your new piggy, he's only got you to love him,
& he knows nothing about your loss. Why don't you talk to him about Ricky, I love the way they listen. Ricky will be looking down saying come on mum give him a cuddle, I don't mind.
 
Hello, I am so sorry for your loss. Many if not all on the forum have lost piggies in our time here. The grief is no less than that we feel when we lose a family member. Piggies to us are our family so please allow yourself time to grieve for Ricky. Maybe get a little memory box and write down things about Ricky and put nice photos in so you have somewhere to remember him. In time the pain and rawness you are feeling will pass. There is no time limit on grief but our minds do allow us to heal so please be kind to yourself while this is going on.

I am really sorry for your loss.

By the way your new piggy is gorgeous, he will not replace Ricky but in time he will find his own place in your heart. Huge hugs

Sleep well little one

RIP Ricky
x x
 
Like most forum members I've been where you are now. The traumatic loss of a much loved piggy causes real and genuine pain and grief - just like losing any other family member. Be kind to yourself. It's ok to miss Ricky and it always takes time to bond with a new piggy. Much as you loved Ricky he has gone. The new baby is here and needs your love and kindness. He can't replace Ricky but he can help you come to terms with the loss you've suffered. Wiebke has given you great advice. We are here for you.
 
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