- Primary Caregiver: When a guinea pig is adopted from Rabbit Haven, the primary caregiver will be a responsible adult. The guinea pig will be treated as an integral part of the family, i.e. no group ownership such as a classroom or roommates pet. We do adopt rabbits to adults only as primary caregivers. The entire family must want the rabbit. If a young child is in the home, an adult will agree to supervise play and help children learn safe handling. We are here to help.
- Indoor Housing: Adopters of Rabbit Haven rabbits understand that our guinea pig are indoor, household companion animals. This means that they must have their living space indoors, and must spend every day and night indoors. No garage housing. Due to the numerous risks of outdoor activity, the guinea pig is never allowed outdoors except in a pet carrier or enclosed pet stroller.
- Keeping guinea pig safe: Adopters agree to keep the guinea pig safe from all predators including other animals in the home..
- Spaying/Neutering: We do not require guinea pigs to be spayed/neutered. It is your responsibility to keep the sexes separate. If you want your guinea pig spayed/neutered, this service is to be provided by an experienced rabbit veterinarian. We are happy to give you referrals..
- Socialization: Guinea Pigs are a highly socialable animal. It is the responsibility of the adult to make certain the guinea pig receives enough social interaction. For this reason, you should also consider having a pair living together.
- Permanent Adoptions: Your adoption is presumed to be permanent. However, if you are unable to keep your adopted guinea pig due to emergency conditions, death in the family or critical illness, or severe financial issues, we will be glad to assist you to secure a new home for your adopted guinea pig. Rabbit Haven adopters agree not to surrender the guinea pig to any other shelter, other rescue group or third party except for a family member will full notification to the Haven. In those cases, we require that you send us the new name, address and email of the family member. We are happy to provide the new family with helpful information and support.
- Returns: The adopter agrees to contact the Director at the Haven if you cannot maintain a home for your guinea pig and need assistance. It is our intention to see if we can help provide what is needed before we accept the guinea pig back into the Haven. . Our intention is to keep the family together. We will place your guinea pig on our wait list as need be and take them back in as soon as possible. Priority given in situations where illness/death of caregiver leaves the guinea pig without original adopter.
- Medical care: The adoptive family agrees that the guinea pig will be seen by a rabbit veterinarian for medical care, nails or grooming as required at least one time per year. Referrals to a qualified vet will be given to you upon adoption. Your guinea pig's first exam is provided to you at no charge.
- Adoption to responsible Adults: Rabbit Haven does not adopt guinea pig to schools, organizations, or businesses. We are looking for loving, individuals or families who want a guinea pig companion(s) to share their life. We want guinea pig to be in a safe place every day and night. Not left alone in a business facility. We want happy, safe guinea pig. If you are a teacher, talk to the Director about how to set up school visits.
- Education: Adopters will be provided with a full education packet. Successful adopters read this information carefully and call us with any questions they have. Of course our counselors will also go over this with you during your adoption and after the adoption as need be.
We look forward to hearing from you.