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Exercise
Just as exercise is important
to humans, exercise is a vital component of keeping
your guinea pig happy and healthy. Not only does
exercise provide mental stimulation which will help
your guinea pig stay happy but it also provides an
excellent basis for healthy joints and bones. While
exercise is important, it is also extremely
important to remember to Pet proof your exercise
area to ensure your pets safety. Keep these tips in
mind when Pet proofing your guinea pigs exercise and
play areas.
Indoor
Proofing
1. Provide a
single room or blocked off hallway where your guinea
pig is safe from other pets. Make sure no other pets
have access by using gates or locks on doors.
2. Make sure
there are no visible electrical outlets or cords
where your guinea pig can reach. Use simple child
safety plugs for open outlets and use cord covers
for any cord that your guinea pig can reach. These
are available at most general merchandise or home
improvement stores.
3. Check to be sure there are
no unsafe items on the floor. Anything that may be a
hazard to your guinea pigs needs to be picked up
before you let your guinea pig out for exercise.
Plastic bags and live plants are often dangerous
favorites so be sure there are none lying around!
4. Consider using a pen where
your guinea pig can safely roam but be out of harms
way, especially if you have small children.
Outdoor
Proofing
 1. NEVER
leave your guinea pig unsupervised outside. That
being said, most guinea pigs love the fresh air and
the new environment which an outside playtime can
provide.
2. Do not let your guinea pig
roam on damp grass or grass which has recently been
treated with insecticide or weed killers.
3. Check for
poisonous plants or weeds. A simple search online of
hazardous plants in your area should bring up
information on what you should be avoiding.
4. Make sure
there are no escape routes that your guinea pig can
slip out of. A 5X8 foot area is plenty of space for
your Pet to roam.
5. Keep fresh water available
at all times. Remember, on warm days, bacteria can
grow quickly so keep water ice cold and change
often.
Leashes
Leashes are currently a controversial topic when it comes to guinea pigs. Guinea pigs cannot be trained to walk on a leash, however, a leash can be used to safely let your guinea pig roam and explore in the grass. The leash should always be held and watch to make sure your guinea pig does not get tangled in it.
Safety
Keeping your Pet safe during
play is of utmost important. Get down on the ground
and take a look around from the perspective of your
guinea pig. Don't take chances and if you are unsure
of something, error on the side of caution.
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