Raystede invites Sussex pet owners to "All About Guinea Pigs Day"

From health checks and bonding advice to learning how to understand guinea pig behaviour, Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare’s All About Guinea Pigs Day on Saturday 17 October, will give visitors the chance to discover more about how to keep these small pets happy and healthy.

On the day, guinea pig owners as well as prospective owners will receive practical advice from the charity’s animal care team and experts, as well as taking part in interactive activities and discovering more about these fascinating small animals.

Health will be a key focus, with Health Check Masterclasses at 10.30am and 1pm, designed to help owners understand how to carry out simple checks and recognise when something may not be quite right. Places are limited and must be booked on the day.

The focus comes at an important time. Recent research* has found that only 13% of guinea pig owners surveyed reported routine six-monthly health checks, while 74% said they would only take their guinea pig to a vet when illness was apparent. The report also highlights research showing that guinea pigs can be prone to hiding signs of illness, making regular monitoring particularly important.

Alongside the health advice, Raystede’s Guinea Pig Bonding Masterclasses, at 11.30am and 2pm, will explore the social needs of guinea pigs and how to introduce compatible companions.

For families, there will be plenty to discover too. Visitors can follow the Happy Guinea Pigs family trail, learn to “speak guinea pig” and explore the fascinating sounds and behaviours these animals use to communicate.

There will also be practical information and resources to take home, as well as the chance to speak to Raystede’s Rehoming Team about adoption, fostering and the charity’s guinea pig bonding service. Visitors can also browse the pet goods shop for healthy treats, enrichment and bedding.

The event is aimed at anyone who wants to understand guinea pigs better – whether they already share their home with them, are thinking about adopting, or simply want to find out more about these inquisitive little animals.

Gemma Price, Head of Prevention and Education at Raystede said “Guinea pigs are often thought of as relatively easy pets to care for, but they have complex welfare needs and can be very good at hiding signs that something is wrong.

“Our Guinea Pig Day is a great opportunity for owners to learn more about their pets’ health, behaviour, diet and social needs, and to pick up practical advice that can make a real difference to their wellbeing.”

Raystede’s All About Guinea Pigs Day takes place on Saturday 17 October. The event is free, but booking is essential, with places for the masterclasses limited and available to sign up for on the day.

For more information and to book, visit: https://www.raystede.org/guineapigday/