[Gpdd] BREEDING: First-timers

[Karen Murphy]

Hello to the Day girls.  I read your post with some concern and don't mean to frighten you, but it is my understanding from my exotics vet that Guinea pigs should never be bred after their first six to eight months of age if they haven't had a previous litter.

The reason being that the pubic symphisis fuses, and the poor sows then cannot acheive the separation of pelvic structure needed to give birth.  I would definitely assume she is pregnant,having been exposed to a male.  Pigs are prolific breeders, and she is most likely carrying.

That said, I would absolutely now--if you have not already--line up a very cavy-savvy exotics vet for an emergency C-section.  This may very well be required to save the life of the mother and babies and I would start saving for it now as it can run into the hundreds of dollars, easily.

I recently gained more knowledge than I really wanted with a pregnant guinea pig.  I rescued her already-pregnant and we had huge complications at birth with retained placentas and blood loss.  I spent in excess of $500.00 saving her and the pups, not to mention weeks of hard work, little sleep, and hand-feeding.

You obviously love guinea pigs, so I would just question your reason for breeding? I doubt it is to make money, as doing things right wouldn't result in a profit and I don't think from what you've said that you would want the babies going to any old home who came along with the money.

There are tons of piggies out there in shelters and rescues needing homes--there truly aren't enough homes for them all.  Respectfully, please consider adopting new piggies instead of breeding--rescues have had them in foster care for sometimes long periods of time and can tell you all about the individual personality of the pigs you are considering adding to your family.  They will work with you to find a pig who suits the family. This way, you get to save a life, rather than risking the life of one of your own beloved pigs.

I can tell you from experience the bond with a rescued pig is like no other--they are so grateful and happy to be with a loving family!

What area of the country are you in?  Perhaps I can send you some links to help you learn what you are needing to know about the pregnancy/brith and also some rescue contacts.

Karen
Meekly, Brody, Vivian, the babies--Autumn, Araminta, Ashby