We also have rabbits & guinea pigs who do not have special needs who are looking for loving, foster and forever homes. By adopting from a small animal rescue, you are not only saving a life but also making room for us to rescue another in need so THANK YOU!!
Wondering where to get a rabbit or guinea pig? Here’s why you should adopt from a small animal rescue:
Unlike most rabbits & guinea pigs that come from Petstores, farms or breeders, all of our rabbits & guinea pigs are spay / neutered prior to adoption and get annual wellness exams to ensure they are healthy.
Adoption Fee: $100/guinea pig
Are you thinking about adopting a guinea pig? Did you know …
- Lifespan 4-8 years with the proper diet & care.
- 2-3hrs of attention and care per day.
- $800 or more per year in food, supplies and veterinary care.
- Are considered Exotic Animals and require specialized veterinary care.
- 2FT x 4FT (8sq ft) of living space per guinea pig.
- Guinea Pigs are social and need to live in pairs or trios.
- Vitamin C Deficiency is common in guinea pigs because they do not produce it.
- Guinea Pigs are very vocal and can be quite loud. Google: guinea pig noises & what they mean
Our adoption process is designed to ensure that every home is set up for furever success and is well-prepared for their new pet. The approval timeline can vary depending on how quickly applicants complete the 3 steps below.
Typically, it takes 1-2 weeks from the start of the process until you can welcome your new guinea pig(s) into your home.
1. APPLICATION
- Submit an Adoption Application
- Zoom Adoption Orientation / GuineaPig101
- Complete POST GuineaPig101 Questionnaire
2. PREPARATION
- Schedule a Meet&Greet
- Order Required Supplies
- Submit picture Home Set-up
3. ADOPTION
- Schedule Home Visit / Drop-off
- Complete Foster to Adopt trial
- Pay Adoption Fee: $100/guinea pig
TO APPLY:
- Must be 18 years of age or older and provide a driver license or state ID card.
- If under 21 and/or still living at home: a parent or guardian will need to participate in the adoption process.
- Everyone in the household (spouses, parents, roommates, etc.) will need to agree to and participate in the adoption process.
- Renters will need to provide written approval from their landlord to have guinea pigs.
1. NEVER ALONE: Guinea pigs are extremely social animals and should live with at-least 1 other guinea pig.
2. INDOORS ONLY: Guinea pigs should be housed and kept indoors at all times. Taking them outdoors is not only stressful for them but exposes them to many dangers, such as: escaping, predators, parasites and heatstroke.
- NO: patios, porches, backyards, or walks/outdoor playtime.
3. CENTRAL: The enclosure should be in an adults bedroom or a central, high-traffic area like the living room.
- NO: laundry room, kitchen, garages, patios, bedroom of children under 12, etc.
MINIMUM HABITAT SIZE:
2ft x 4ft, 8sq ft 1 or 2 guinea pigs
2ft x 5ft, 10sq ft 2 or 3 guinea pigs
2ft x 6ft, 12sq ft 3 or 4 guinea pigs
A pair of guinea pigs will need a minimum 2ft x 4ft (8sq ft) living space when enclosed, preferably 2ft x 5ft (10sq ft). For each additional guinea pig add 2-4 sq ft to their living space to maintain a healthy and harmonious environment and prevent fighting and bullying due to resource guarding.
Cages and hutches DO NOT provide enough room for guinea pigs. This can lead to frustration and stress which presents as pacing, excessive squeaking, loud cage chewing and bar rattling, and aggression towards cage mates due to resource guarding. Guinea pigs that are confined to small cages often become withdrawn or even depressed, losing interest in food, play, and interaction. Because they do not have enough room to exercise they are prone to obesity, heart disease, and infections. Guinea pigs kept in hutches also frequently develop bumble-foot.
1 | Habitat
minimum: 2ft x 4ft (8sq ft); preferred: 2ft x 5ft (10sq ft)
- Habitat Liner | set of 2
- Litter box or Kitchen Area (optional) | paper based litter
- Water Bottle | 1 per guinea pig
- Food Bowl | 1 per guinea pig
- Hidey House | 1 per guinea pig
2 | Diet
- Hay | Alfalfa for Juveniles or Timothy for Adults | min. 40oz
- Pellets | Oxbow Adult or Young Adult Food
- Greens | Spring Mix
- Vitamin C Supplement
- Treats
3 | Toys, Enrichment & Grooming
- Grooming Supplies | nail clippers and brush or comb
- Enrichment | Chew toys, snuffle mats, tunnels, puzzle toys, etc.
4 | Carrier
minimum: 12in x 18in
FAQ:
Can I Adopt Just One Guinea-pig?
No.
Guinea pigs are highly social animals, and living alone can be confusing, distressing, and even harmful to their well-being. They thrive in pairs or small herds, where they engage in natural behaviors like grooming, playing, and sleeping side by side—forming deep bonds that fulfill their need for companionship. No amount of human attention or the presence of another species can replace the companionship of their own kind.
Single guinea pigs often show signs of loneliness and stress, such as excessive squeaking, pacing, or hiding. Over time, isolation can lead to withdrawal, depression, and even a loss of appetite or interest in play. The negative effects of prolonged solitude in guinea pigs are similar to those observed in other highly social animals, such as orcas in captivity or humans in solitary confinement.
DID YOU KNOW? In countries like Holland, Switzerland, Sweden, Germany, and Austria, it is illegal to own just one guinea pig because of the distress it causes them!
Are Guinea Pigs Good Pets for Children?
Cost of Owning a Pair of Guinea Pigs
Monthly Costs $60-120 The ongoing monthly cost of bedding / litter, hay, food, treats, toys, and fresh produce, for two guinea pigs is approximately $60 to $120.
Annual Costs $1,000-1,750 Guinea pigs should have an annual wellness exam with an experienced exotic veterinarian every year, this costs around $100 to $150 per guinea pig. Therefore, the total annual cost for owning two guinea pigs is $1,500 and $2,000; this includes the monthly costs of food and other supplies as well as their annual check-up.
In the event of a medical emergency, which is unfortunately common as guinea pigs are extremely fragile, the cost of emergency veterinary care can be $500-700 or more.
10 Mistakes Guinea Pig Parents Make
Penny & Wild: Smalls of South Florida is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, no-kill sanctuary and rescue dedicated to providing a safe haven for special needs rabbits & guinea pigs located in South Florida. We currently have 3 special needs guinea pigs & 7 special needs rabbits in our care:
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We also have rabbits & guinea pigs who do not have special needs who are looking for loving, foster and forever homes. By adopting from a small animal rescue, you are not only saving a life but also making room for us to rescue another in need so THANK YOU!!
Wondering where to get a rabbit or guinea pig? Here’s why you should adopt from a small animal rescue:
Unlike most rabbits & guinea pigs that come from Petstores, farms or breeders, all of our rabbits & guinea pigs are spay / neutered prior to adoption and get annual wellness exams to ensure they are healthy.
Adoption Fee: $100/guinea pig
Are you thinking about adopting a guinea pig? Did you know …
- Lifespan 4-8 years with the proper diet & care.
- 2-3hrs of attention and care per day.
- $800 or more per year in food, supplies and veterinary care.
- Are considered Exotic Animals and require specialized veterinary care.
- 2FT x 4FT (8sq ft) of living space per guinea pig.
- Guinea Pigs are social and need to live in pairs or trios.
- Vitamin C Deficiency is common in guinea pigs because they do not produce it.
- Guinea Pigs are very vocal and can be quite loud. Google: guinea pig noises & what they mean
Our adoption process is designed to ensure that every home is set up for furever success and is well-prepared for their new pet. The approval timeline can vary depending on how quickly applicants complete the 3 steps below.
Typically, it takes 1-2 weeks from the start of the process until you can welcome your new guinea pig(s) into your home.
1. APPLICATION
- Submit an Adoption Application
- Zoom Adoption Orientation / GuineaPig101
- Complete POST GuineaPig101 Questionnaire
2. PREPARATION
- Schedule a Meet&Greet
- Order Required Supplies
- Submit picture Home Set-up
3. ADOPTION
- Schedule Home Visit / Drop-off
- Complete Foster to Adopt trial
- Pay Adoption Fee: $100/guinea pig
TO APPLY:
- Must be 18 years of age or older and provide a driver license or state ID card.
- If under 21 and/or still living at home: a parent or guardian will need to participate in the adoption process.
- Everyone in the household (spouses, parents, roommates, etc.) will need to agree to and participate in the adoption process.
- Renters will need to provide written approval from their landlord to have guinea pigs.
1. NEVER ALONE: Guinea pigs are extremely social animals and should live with at-least 1 other guinea pig.
2. INDOORS ONLY: Guinea pigs should be housed and kept indoors at all times. Taking them outdoors is not only stressful for them but exposes them to many dangers, such as: escaping, predators, parasites and heatstroke.
- NO: patios, porches, backyards, or walks/outdoor playtime.
3. CENTRAL: The enclosure should be in an adults bedroom or a central, high-traffic area like the living room.
- NO: laundry room, kitchen, garages, patios, bedroom of children under 12, etc.
MINIMUM HABITAT SIZE:
2ft x 4ft, 8sq ft 1 or 2 guinea pigs
2ft x 5ft, 10sq ft 2 or 3 guinea pigs
2ft x 6ft, 12sq ft 3 or 4 guinea pigs
A pair of guinea pigs will need a minimum 2ft x 4ft (8sq ft) living space when enclosed, preferably 2ft x 5ft (10sq ft). For each additional guinea pig add 2-4 sq ft to their living space to maintain a healthy and harmonious environment and prevent fighting and bullying due to resource guarding.
Cages and hutches DO NOT provide enough room for guinea pigs. This can lead to frustration and stress which presents as pacing, excessive squeaking, loud cage chewing and bar rattling, and aggression towards cage mates due to resource guarding. Guinea pigs that are confined to small cages often become withdrawn or even depressed, losing interest in food, play, and interaction. Because they do not have enough room to exercise they are prone to obesity, heart disease, and infections. Guinea pigs kept in hutches also frequently develop bumble-foot.
1 | Habitat
minimum: 2ft x 4ft (8sq ft); preferred: 2ft x 5ft (10sq ft)
- Habitat Liner | set of 2
- Litter box or Kitchen Area (optional) | paper based litter
- Water Bottle | 1 per guinea pig
- Food Bowl | 1 per guinea pig
- Hidey House | 1 per guinea pig
2 | Diet
- Hay | Alfalfa for Juveniles or Timothy for Adults | min. 40oz
- Pellets | Oxbow Adult or Young Adult Food
- Greens | Spring Mix
- Vitamin C Supplement
- Treats
3 | Toys, Enrichment & Grooming
- Grooming Supplies | nail clippers and brush or comb
- Enrichment | Chew toys, snuffle mats, tunnels, puzzle toys, etc.
4 | Carrier
minimum: 12in x 18in
FAQ:
Can I Adopt Just One Guinea-pig?
No.
Guinea pigs are highly social animals, and living alone can be confusing, distressing, and even harmful to their well-being. They thrive in pairs or small herds, where they engage in natural behaviors like grooming, playing, and sleeping side by side—forming deep bonds that fulfill their need for companionship. No amount of human attention or the presence of another species can replace the companionship of their own kind.
Single guinea pigs often show signs of loneliness and stress, such as excessive squeaking, pacing, or hiding. Over time, isolation can lead to withdrawal, depression, and even a loss of appetite or interest in play. The negative effects of prolonged solitude in guinea pigs are similar to those observed in other highly social animals, such as orcas in captivity or humans in solitary confinement.
DID YOU KNOW? In countries like Holland, Switzerland, Sweden, Germany, and Austria, it is illegal to own just one guinea pig because of the distress it causes them!
Are Guinea Pigs Good Pets for Children?
Cost of Owning a Pair of Guinea Pigs
Monthly Costs $60-120 The ongoing monthly cost of bedding / litter, hay, food, treats, toys, and fresh produce, for two guinea pigs is approximately $60 to $120.
Annual Costs $1,000-1,750 Guinea pigs should have an annual wellness exam with an experienced exotic veterinarian every year, this costs around $100 to $150 per guinea pig. Therefore, the total annual cost for owning two guinea pigs is $1,500 and $2,000; this includes the monthly costs of food and other supplies as well as their annual check-up.
In the event of a medical emergency, which is unfortunately common as guinea pigs are extremely fragile, the cost of emergency veterinary care can be $500-700 or more.
10 Mistakes Guinea Pig Parents Make
ADOPT A RESCUE GUINEA PIG
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Penny & Wild: Smalls of South Florida is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, no-kill sanctuary and rescue dedicated to providing a safe haven for special needs rabbits & guinea pigs located in South Florida. We currently have 3 special needs guinea pigs & 7 special needs rabbits in our care:
We also have rabbits & guinea pigs who do not have special needs who are looking for loving, foster and forever homes. By adopting from a small animal rescue, you are not only saving a life but also making room for us to rescue another in need so THANK YOU!!
Wondering where to get a rabbit or guinea pig? Here’s why you should adopt from a small animal rescue:
Unlike most rabbits & guinea pigs that come from Petstores, farms or breeders, all of our rabbits & guinea pigs are spay / neutered prior to adoption and get annual wellness exams to ensure they are healthy.
Adoption Fee: $100/guinea pig
Are you thinking about adopting a guinea pig? Did you know …
- Lifespan 4-8 years with the proper diet & care.
- 2-3hrs of attention and care per day.
- $800 or more per year in food, supplies and veterinary care.
- Are considered Exotic Animals and require specialized veterinary care.
- 2FT x 4FT (8sq ft) of living space per guinea pig.
- Guinea Pigs are social and need to live in pairs or trios.
- Vitamin C Deficiency is common in guinea pigs because they do not produce it.
- Guinea Pigs are very vocal and can be quite loud. Google: guinea pig noises & what they mean
Our adoption process is designed to ensure that every home is set up for furever success and is well-prepared for their new pet. The approval timeline can vary depending on how quickly applicants complete the 3 steps below.
Typically, it takes 1-2 weeks from the start of the process until you can welcome your new guinea pig(s) into your home.
1. APPLICATION
- Submit an Adoption Application
- Zoom Adoption Orientation / GuineaPig101
- Complete POST GuineaPig101 Questionnaire
2. PREPARATION
- Schedule a Meet&Greet
- Order Required Supplies
- Submit picture Home Set-up
3. ADOPTION
- Schedule Home Visit / Drop-off
- Complete Foster to Adopt trial
- Pay Adoption Fee: $100/guinea pig
TO APPLY:
- Must be 18 years of age or older and provide a driver license or state ID card.
- If under 21 and/or still living at home: a parent or guardian will need to participate in the adoption process.
- Everyone in the household (spouses, parents, roommates, etc.) will need to agree to and participate in the adoption process.
- Renters will need to provide written approval from their landlord to have guinea pigs.
1. NEVER ALONE: Guinea pigs are extremely social animals and should live with at-least 1 other guinea pig.
2. INDOORS ONLY: Guinea pigs should be housed and kept indoors at all times. Taking them outdoors is not only stressful for them but exposes them to many dangers, such as: escaping, predators, parasites and heatstroke.
- NO: patios, porches, backyards, or walks/outdoor playtime.
3. CENTRAL: The enclosure should be in an adults bedroom or a central, high-traffic area like the living room.
- NO: laundry room, kitchen, garages, patios, bedroom of children under 12, etc.
MINIMUM HABITAT SIZE:
2ft x 4ft, 8sq ft 1 or 2 guinea pigs
2ft x 5ft, 10sq ft 2 or 3 guinea pigs
2ft x 6ft, 12sq ft 3 or 4 guinea pigs
A pair of guinea pigs will need a minimum 2ft x 4ft (8sq ft) living space when enclosed, preferably 2ft x 5ft (10sq ft). For each additional guinea pig add 2-4 sq ft to their living space to maintain a healthy and harmonious environment and prevent fighting and bullying due to resource guarding.
Cages and hutches DO NOT provide enough room for guinea pigs. This can lead to frustration and stress which presents as pacing, excessive squeaking, loud cage chewing and bar rattling, and aggression towards cage mates due to resource guarding. Guinea pigs that are confined to small cages often become withdrawn or even depressed, losing interest in food, play, and interaction. Because they do not have enough room to exercise they are prone to obesity, heart disease, and infections. Guinea pigs kept in hutches also frequently develop bumble-foot.
1 | Habitat
minimum: 2ft x 4ft (8sq ft); preferred: 2ft x 5ft (10sq ft)
- Habitat Liner | set of 2
- Litter box or Kitchen Area (optional) | paper based litter
- Water Bottle | 1 per guinea pig
- Food Bowl | 1 per guinea pig
- Hidey House | 1 per guinea pig
2 | Diet
- Hay | Alfalfa for Juveniles or Timothy for Adults | min. 40oz
- Pellets | Oxbow Adult or Young Adult Food
- Greens | Spring Mix
- Vitamin C Supplement
- Treats
3 | Toys, Enrichment & Grooming
- Grooming Supplies | nail clippers and brush or comb
- Enrichment | Chew toys, snuffle mats, tunnels, puzzle toys, etc.
4 | Carrier
minimum: 12in x 18in
FAQ:
Can I Adopt Just One Guinea-pig?
No.
Guinea pigs are highly social animals, and living alone can be confusing, distressing, and even harmful to their well-being. They thrive in pairs or small herds, where they engage in natural behaviors like grooming, playing, and sleeping side by side—forming deep bonds that fulfill their need for companionship. No amount of human attention or the presence of another species can replace the companionship of their own kind.
Single guinea pigs often show signs of loneliness and stress, such as excessive squeaking, pacing, or hiding. Over time, isolation can lead to withdrawal, depression, and even a loss of appetite or interest in play. The negative effects of prolonged solitude in guinea pigs are similar to those observed in other highly social animals, such as orcas in captivity or humans in solitary confinement.
DID YOU KNOW? In countries like Holland, Switzerland, Sweden, Germany, and Austria, it is illegal to own just one guinea pig because of the distress it causes them!
Are Guinea Pigs Good Pets for Children?
Cost of Owning a Pair of Guinea Pigs
Monthly Costs $60-120 The ongoing monthly cost of bedding / litter, hay, food, treats, toys, and fresh produce, for two guinea pigs is approximately $60 to $120.
Annual Costs $1,000-1,750 Guinea pigs should have an annual wellness exam with an experienced exotic veterinarian every year, this costs around $100 to $150 per guinea pig. Therefore, the total annual cost for owning two guinea pigs is $1,500 and $2,000; this includes the monthly costs of food and other supplies as well as their annual check-up.
In the event of a medical emergency, which is unfortunately common as guinea pigs are extremely fragile, the cost of emergency veterinary care can be $500-700 or more.