Obituary guinea pig
Twister, Amber, Crazy and Balli-Ann
Childhood memories
Guinea pigs evoke childhood memories for many people. They are popular little cuddly and pet animals. But are they the ideal pets for children? Guinea pigs are by no means toy substitutes, but companions for whom children – with the support of their parents – should take responsibility. Guinea pigs are very peaceful animals and it takes a long time for them to put up a fight. This also gives you time to explain the behaviour of the new family member to your child and to observe the animal and its reactions and act accordingly. Guinea pigs love to be kept busy, but also clearly show when they no longer want to play or be stroked.
Cuddle animal yes or no?
It is a misconception that guinea pigs are cuddly animals, as they are escape animals by nature. Carrying them around too much or holding them in your hand constricts them. Some of them, those that have built up trust in humans, put up with this, while others react by biting or trying to escape. Good observation is therefore important here.
Do guinea pigs want to cuddle with each other?
Guinea pigs do not like to lie close together, as we know it from sheep or large domestic pigs, for example. They only huddle close together when they are frightened, for example. Even then, they grumble at each other because closeness just isn’t great for a guinea pig.
The guinea pig family at Gut Aiderbichl Henndorf grows and shrinks and grows …
Suddenly an allergy arises, a move is imminent or the children get older and the little playmate is swapped for other hobbies.
Crazy, Balli-Ann, Amber and Twister were taken in because a lot had changed in their humans’ lives and the guinea pigs didn’t fit into the new life plan.
Crazy, Balli-Ann, Amber and Twister were now between five and seven years old. Some of them had bad teeth that had caused metabolic problems in recent years, Amber had a festering uterus and Twister was suffering from a tumour. There was no more help for our little friends and, to spare them further suffering and pain, we said goodbye to them one by one (not all four died on the same day). Quietly, one walked over the Rainbow Bridge, then a little later the next. The decision to release them was the right one.
The familiar “Wheek – Wheek” became quieter and quieter
Crazy, Balli-Ann, Amber and Twister were lovely and grateful animals, even though they had reached an advanced age. They knew the voices of their keepers and accepted the care and medication with good humour. We think they had a sheltered and well-cared-for home at Gut Aiderbichl for a few more months, with good food and time for grooming and lots of cuddles.
Sometimes it's the smallest things that take up the most space in your heart.
– Pu Bear
Dear friends,
We are grateful that we were able to accompany and spoil you for a while longer. The animal carers were particularly sad because the guinea pig family gradually became smaller and the lovely guinea pigs travelled over the Rainbow Bridge. You were all special, lovable guinea pigs and your little feet have left their mark on our hearts. Wheek-Wheek – farewell to the other side of the river.
By: Gisela Pschenitschnig, Gut Aiderbichl
