Will Benny Be Okay On His Own?

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Piggiemum7

Piggiemum7

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Today Ben lost his lifelong friend Jerry. They didn't live together (in cages on top of each other) and rarely spent time together other than floor time (still separated by cage), Ben was definitely the dominant piggy and seemed to get annoyed when Jerry would try to cuddle him etc. What I'm wondering is if Ben will grieve? He did seem to notice that Jerry was not there and I let him have a sniff around his cage and he chattered his teeth. I really really can't get another piggy, I'm so heartbroken I just couldn't deal with it and my family have said no more, but I don't want Ben to get lonely. I know the signs of a grieving guinea pig and I am looking out for them but so far he is still his energetic self and is still eating.
any advice?
 
Well, being dominate he may have less sadness about it than if it was the other way around. But try to look for things to show if your building a case to your family.
 
scott1 said:
Well, being dominate he may have less sadness about it than if it was the other way around. But try to look for things to show if your building a case to your family.
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That's what I was thinking. He doesn't seem to be too upset just a little confused as I've had him sleeping in my room whilst jerry was at the vet however didn't think it was going to become permanent. I just don't think I can get another guinea pig and go through it all again :/
 
aw, well take time to grieve on your own and then make a decision. As much as we'd like to think they know what's going on at our levels they don't really. Sounds like Ben is fine for now but could use a baby friend to raise in time :)
 
I know my dominant pig did less visible grieving after losing a friend that my subordinate pig did... she was really quite distressed. If they didn't share space, it may be less of a lifestyle change for him. I completely understand the feeling of not being able to go through losses again... I've had small animals for almost twenty years now and no larger pets, and I know at times I have had periods of time when I feel like I just can't do it anymore. However, for myself I do come around and realize that if the only way to protect against loss is not to have pets, that's not a sacrifice I'm willing to make because they bring a lot to my life and the house feels empty when I don't have any. As Ben is doing okay right now, give yourself time to grieve and then see how you feel a little later down the road.

((HUGS)) and so sorry for your loss.
 
I would leave the ultimate decision after seeing how well your boy is coping on his own. As they were not interaction all that much, he is most likely used to being on his own now, but he will need regular daily stimulation and interaction from you.
 
Wiebke said:
I would leave the ultimate decision after seeing how well your boy is coping on his own. As they were not interaction all that much, he is most likely used to being on his own now, but he will need regular daily stimulation and interaction from you.
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I have moved one of the cages into my bedroom so he won't sleep alone and we are giving him lots of cuddles so fingers crossed he is ok
 
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