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Of all the creatures you may
have as a Pet, the guinea pig is
one of the easiest pets to
understand! Through a wide
variety of vocalizations and
body languages, guinea pigs
will be able to tell you how they are feeling in just a
short time.
Body Language
When it
comes to body language, your
guinea pig has a couple of neat
tricks up their sleeves when
compared to other pets. Not only
is their body language
interesting, it is often
directly accompanied with
vocalizations that help assist
you in determining what they are
trying to say. What exactly do
these movements mean?
 1.
Licking Guinea pigs lick? Yes,
they do! Whether this is a sign
of affection or the sign of a
salty or sweet hand is yet to be
determined but it is definitely
something to watch for!
2.
Popcorning A trait guinea pigs
around the world are known for!
Just like the popcorn jumping
around in the microwaveable bag,
you may see your guinea pig do
the same! You'll see this most
often in happy, playful, younger
guinea pigs, but your adult
guinea pigs might occasionally
get in a hop or two.
3. Head
tossing Just as you thought
your guinea pig was really
warming up to you, you get to
the head, and your guinea pig
tosses his head back as if to
throw your hand off. Some guinea
pigs just don't like their heads
touched and this is a prime
example of your guinea pig
telling you exactly what they do
and don't want you to do.
Is your guinea pig relaxed or stiff? Does your guinea pig seem nervous or anxious? Take the time to pay attention to how your guinea pig is feeling and you will notice more than you think!
Dr. Rolan Tripp coined the phrase, "Positive Human Leadership" to mean providing pets an environment where nothing bad, scary, or painful happens. A relaxed, comfortable body position from you will show your pet that all is well. Avoid raising your voice or getting upset with your new pet.
Pay attention to the little
noises and body language your
guinea pig is providing. You
will soon know exactly how your
guinea pig is feeling!
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