Petfinder.com, the largest database of homeless pets, announces that March is Adopt-a-Rescued-Guinea-Pig Month. Nearly 1,000 guinea pigs in need of homes are listed on the Petfinder.com Web site at any one time.

Domesticated guinea pigs, also known as cavies, make good family pets with their gentle ways. They entertain their guardians with their wheeking, rumbling and burbling sounds, and their jumping antics are likened to popping popcorn. They can jump up to 12 inches in the air.

Guinea pigs may live as long as 10 years, so the decision to adopt one must be made carefully. Their daily care includes feeding, watering, cage cleaning, exercise and companionship. Occasional medical care by a veterinarian who specializes in exotic pets may be required.

Guinea pigs make good pets for children over six years of age; however, small children should be supervised by an adult while handling a guinea pig.

For more about cavies and their special needs and how to house and groom them, visit http://www.petfinder.com.

Posted on SHARE Yahoo group Mar. 1, 2005