Keenan and Kel were brought to RGPR because their Humans were emigrating. Two Chocolate Dutch types that originated from down Devon way but ended up in Reading with their Humans. I remember how very sad the Humans were at having to part with the boys, they were well loved pets that had been with the family from babies. I was told about their love of runner beans and how they were they favourite treat 
I always had the intention of taking them in and rehoming them, despite being around 5 years. However as they were likely to only “appeal” to certain homes I asked Chrissie if she would foster them for me. This would give them a little more individual attention which would be nice if they didn’t find a home. Chrissie was happy to have them and after a short stay here they went to her.
When Keenan was 5 1/2 he presented with symptoms suggesting a stone, he was rushed up to see James (our then vet) who confirmed a stone was indeed present but he wasn’t too happy about doing surgery when there was another way of helping the situation. Had Keenan been a dog or cat James would simply have “manually” moved the stone and without using anaesthetic. Although he hadn’t done this procedure on a guinea pig before he was keen to try it and convinced it was a good option. Keenan came home that day pain free (if a little sore), and lived another 6 months with his stone. The one time that he did become in pain again James simply moved the stone again until it wasn’t in a place that caused pain.
I will always look to rehome Senior pigs from RGPR, I believe that every guinea pig deserves to have a chance at having that second or third etc Human and the lifestyle and attention they deserve. Who am I to label them as “old” and ” not rehomable”? To me a guinea pig is “not rehomable” if the right Human doesn’t come along, whose fault is that? Certainly not a reason, in my opinion, to deny anyone a home and Human of their own.
Karen (who isn’t ageist)
Kel in the background with Keenan in front.
- Keenan and Kel shortly after they arrived here, enjoying run time.
