Tarriantiara Hayes couldn’t believe her eyes as she drove to her son’s school and noticed something unusual out of the corner of her eye. Initially mistaking it for a cat running up a ditch, she soon realized the creature was much too small. Pulling over to investigate, she discovered three guinea pigs—two females and one male—abandoned in a large plastic bin by the side of the road. Soaked from the previous day’s downpours and plagued by insects, the poor animals were in a pitiful state.
Moved by compassion, Hayes couldn’t bear to leave them there. Utilizing a blanket and a piece of cabbage from her car, she coaxed the guinea pigs back into the bin and transported them home, shielding them with blankets. Despite never planning for pets, Hayes found herself unable to part with them, their endearing nature capturing her heart.
“They’re such sweethearts. I wasn’t planning on getting pigs, but this is their forever home,” Hayes shared.
Naming the male guinea pig Trevor, and the females Piggy and Belly, Hayes soon discovered that her newfound companions were expecting. While inexperienced with guinea pigs, she diligently researched their care needs and sought guidance from her best friend, a guinea pig aficionado. Following advice, she separated the male from the expectant females and provided them with a calcium-rich diet to support their pregnancies.
Shortly thereafter, Piggy gave birth to three adorable babies, while Belly awaits the arrival of her own litter any day now. Hayes intends to keep one of Piggy’s male offspring as a companion for Trevor, while the two female babies will be lovingly placed in new homes.
“They just fell into my lap, and I just want them to go to good homes,” Hayes expressed.
Reflecting on the situation, Hayes emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership, highlighting that this ordeal could have been avoided had the guinea pigs’ previous caregivers conducted proper research and opted for spaying and neutering. Through Hayes’ selfless actions, these guinea pigs have found a guardian who ensures their well-being and a future filled with care and love.