“They’re right next to … a busy road, so they could have gotten hit by a car.”
A Sudden Change
Late last year in Modesto, California, two guinea pigs went from living safely in a home to being abandoned in a park, left to fend for themselves.
When a concerned parkgoer spotted the frightened animals cowering in the grass, they quickly called Little Hearts Rescue for help.
A Race Against Time
Rescue owner Aubree Lowell rushed to the scene, only to find the guinea pigs in grave danger.
Raptors circled overhead, while large dogs ran loose nearby. Even worse, they were next to a busy road, at risk of being hit by a car.
“This park is absolutely massive,” Lowell said in a video of the rescue.
A Safe Haven
Despite the risks, Lowell acted quickly. She scooped up the first guinea pig and placed her in a carrier. Moments later, she rescued the second.
The frightened pair had wet, dirty fur and overgrown nails, but were otherwise healthy. As Lowell gently petted them and fed them treats, they relaxed and began chirping happily.
Back at Little Hearts Rescue, the guinea pigs received proper care and quickly regained their health.
A Common but Heartbreaking Issue
Unfortunately, abandoning guinea pigs is far too common.
“Guinea pigs are … domesticated household pets,” Lowell explained. “I don’t understand why people think they’re just gonna survive out here.”
If you can no longer care for a guinea pig, surrender them to a shelter instead of leaving them outside, where they cannot survive on their own.
Still Waiting for a Home
While one guinea pig found a new family, Domingo, the male, is still waiting for adoption.
He spent Christmas in the shelter without a home, and now, as April approaches, he’s still hoping for a loving family.
After everything he’s been through, Domingo deserves a forever home—one filled with love, safety, and care.