New charity launched to improve guinea pig welfare in the UK
Guinea Pig Welfare UK is seeking members and partners across the veterinary sector, rescue organisations, the pet industry and the wider public to support its education and research initiatives
Register to get 1 more free article
Reveal the article below by registering for our email newsletter.
Want unlimited access? View Plans
Already have an account? Sign in
A charity dedicated to guinea pig health and welfare has been launched to address gaps in care, knowledge and veterinary training across the UK.
Guinea Pig Welfare UK was formally launched on 10 September at the Guinea Pig Welfare Forum. It brings together veterinary professionals, animal care specialists and nutritional experts with the aim of becoming a recognised authority on guinea pig welfare standards.
John Chitty, chair of trustees and a former president of the British Small Animal Veterinary Association, said the charity would provide “evidence-based education and resources” for owners, vets, rescue centres and the pet industry.
He said: “With many general practice vets receiving limited training on guinea pig-specific health issues, an authoritative voice for guinea pig welfare standards is sorely needed.”
The charity will focus on four main areas: owner education on housing, diet and enrichment; training and support for veterinary professionals; ethical research into health conditions; and advocacy for improved welfare policies.
Guinea pigs are among the most common small pets in the UK, with around 400,000 estimated to be kept nationwide. Their complex social, dietary and housing needs are often misunderstood, leading to welfare concerns.
Trustees alongside Chitty include researcher Mary Coles of the University of Liverpool, animal welfare campaigner Rae Walters, and Ellie Parkes, nutritional adviser at Burgess Pet Care, which supported the charity’s formation.
The charity’s first patron is Sean Wensley, former president of the British Veterinary Association, who said he was “honoured” to take up the role.
He added: “With some 400,000 guinea pigs kept as pets in the UK, there is a clear need for an evidence-based understanding of their welfare needs and the extent to which these needs are being met.”
Guinea Pig Welfare UK is seeking members and partners across the veterinary sector, rescue organisations, the pet industry and the wider public to support its education and research initiatives.
