[Gpdd] [HEALTH] <Size of Piggie Cages/Pet Store Observations>

[petunia_loo at yahoo.com]

Debra & Ginger,
a good cage size for one cavy would be around 10 square feet. most pet stores do not carry cages large enough for gpigs (or larger animals like rabbits). A good alternative is the C&C cages. go to www.cavycages.com to find out all about them.
About the pet store pig with the swollen eyes, I definitely think you should talk to a manager, and ask what vet they take the animal to. Call the vet later to confirm that she/he did treat the animal. Would you be able to go back tomorrow and talk to a manager?
Tell the manager why it is not safe to house the guinea pig and rabbit together. Guinea pigs have very fragile skeletons & ribs, and rabbits can kick the guinea pig and cause serious injury. Also, some rabbit foods contain an antibiotic (coccidistat) that is toxic to guinea pigs. Point out the animal with the swollen eyes, and if he's not there, tell the manager what you saw the other day. Remember to ask him what vet they take their sick animals to. If you act polite and do not blow your top and accuse anyone (like I might lol), the manager should take you seriously and treat you politely. I work at a petstore, and believe me, the specialty manager that works here has more respect for people who show knowledge and real responsible concern for the animals, than people who obviously have no clue how to take care of them (one lady asked the other day if a $500 parrot was going to go on clearance soon). You might want to ask a friend or someone to go with you to get your courage up. :)
If a day or two after you talk to the manager no action is taken to treat the guinea pig, then I would file an anonymous complaint to the local SPCA.
Best of luck and keep us posted,
Lauren Piglet and Pooh

		
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