Rehoming Guidelines

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 North Idaho Guinea Pig Rescue encourages responsible, safe rehoming practices for owners who are unable to keep their guinea pigs. Our goal is to help prevent neglect, unsafe placements, and impulse transfers. 

Before Rehoming 

Please consider: 

• Guinea pigs are a long-term commitment (5–7+ years)  
• Many challenges can be resolved with proper support and education  
• We may be able to offer guidance before rehoming is necessary  

Never Release or Abandon 

Guinea pigs cannot survive outdoors. 

• Do not release guinea pigs into the wild  
• Do not leave them outside or unattended  
• Do not give them away without screening  

Abandonment is dangerous and often fatal. 

Do Not Offer “Free to Good Home” 

We strongly discourage free rehoming. 

• Charging a reasonable fee helps ensure serious adopters  
• Free animals are more likely to be neglected or used improperly  

Screen Potential Adopters Carefully 

Ask questions such as: 

• What kind of enclosure will you use?  
• Do you understand guinea pig diet and care?  
• Are you prepared for long-term commitment?  
• Will they be housed with another guinea pig?  

Avoid placing guinea pigs with individuals who: 

• Have inadequate housing plans  
• Lack basic care knowledge  
• Are seeking a “starter pet” for children without supervision  

Provide Complete Information 

Be honest about: 

• Health conditions  
• Behavior  
• Age and history  
• Bonded pairs (do not separate bonded guinea pigs)  

Transparency helps ensure a successful placement. 

Send Them With Supplies 

Whenever possible, include: 

• Current food and hay  
• Cage or enclosure  
• Hideys, water bottles, and accessories  

This helps with a smoother transition. 

Use Safe Platforms 

If rehoming online: 

• Avoid anonymous or suspicious inquiries  
• Do not agree to meet in unsafe locations  
• Prioritize local, verifiable adopters  

When to Contact a Rescue 

Please reach out to a rescue if: 

• The guinea pig is sick or injured  
• You are unable to find a safe home  
• The situation is urgent or unsafe  
• You are unsure how to properly rehome  

Our Role 

North Idaho Guinea Pig Rescue may: 

• Provide guidance and education  
• Review potential adopters (when possible)  
• Accept surrender requests based on availability  

Our Goal 

To ensure every guinea pig is placed in a safe, informed, and committed home, whether through rescue intake or responsible owner-led rehoming.