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Protecting the health and happiness of guinea pigs across the UK

We’re here to raise welfare standards, support owners, and share expert-backed guidance to help every guinea pig thrive.

Our founding principles

Our mission

To advance the health and welfare of all guinea pigs in Great Britain and Northern Ireland through education and ethical research.

Our vision

To be the recognised experts in making a positive difference to the wellbeing of all guinea pigs in the UK.
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Education

We provide trusted, accessible advice to help owners give their guinea pigs the best life possible.

Vet support

We promote better understanding of guinea pig medicine across the UK veterinary profession.

Research

We support and share ethical, non-invasive research to improve guinea pig health and welfare.

Advocacy

We speak up for guinea pigs — raising awareness and pushing for higher welfare standards.

Welfare needs

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Diet

Choosing the best guinea pig food for your cavies can seem complicated. Understanding their nutritional needs can help you to make the best choices when it comes to your guinea pigs’ diet.
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Companionship

Guinea pigs should not live alone as they love the company of other guinea pigs.
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Environment

Your guinea pig's environment is really important for their welfare. We've pulled some top tips together so you can give your furry friends the best life!
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Behaviour

Guinea pigs might be small, but their personalities are not! Gentle and lively, and definitely full of life, understanding guinea pig behaviours will help you have a great relationship with them.
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Health

Understanding the signs of ill health and knowing what to look out can make all the difference between your pet enjoying a speedy recovery or becoming very poorly.

Support Better Lives for Guinea Pigs

By becoming a member, you’re not only donating to vital education and research — you also get access to our expert digital newsletter, full of tips, stories, and vet-backed guidance.
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Subscription to members only digital newsletter

Support UK-wide guinea pig education

Help fund ethical research

Access member-only content

Latest articles & advice

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Guinea Pig Welfare Forum 2026

Save the date to make sure you can join us at the Guinea Pig Forum on 22nd September 2026. Join us for a brilliant line up of speakers and be part of the conversation.
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🐹 Why Harnesses Are Unsafe for Guinea Pigs

They might look cute, but harnesses are more likely to cause harm than fun. We recommend that Guinea Pigs have 24/7 access to a safe enclosure that they can explore rather than a harness. Read on to find out why.
Featured image for Guinea Pig Welfare Forum 2025: What to Expect from This Year’s Groundbreaking Event

Guinea Pig Welfare Forum 2025: What to Expect from This Year’s Groundbreaking Event

Guinea Pig Welfare Forum returns on Wednesday, 10 September 2025, at the Crowne Plaza Birmingham City Centre.

Meet our team

Together, our trustees and patrons bring diverse experience and expertise, all united by a deep commitment to small animal welfare.
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John Chitty

John Chitty

BVetMed CertZooMed MRCVS
Chair
Mary Coles

Mary Coles

BSc (Hons)
Communications
Rae Walters

Rae Walters

Secretary
Ellie Parkes

Ellie Parkes

BSc (Hons) MSc
Treasurer
Dr Sean Wensley

Dr Sean Wensley

Patron

Meet our partners

Our partners represent a wide range of organisations and expertise, all united by a shared commitment to improving guinea pig welfare.
Burgess Pet Care logo

Support Our Work

Become a member

To support our work and get expert tips, stories, and vet-backed advice in our digital newsletter.
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Not ready to become a member?

You can still help by making a one-time donation or sharing our work.