On 19 September 2024, the UK saw its first-ever national event dedicated solely to guinea pig welfare: the Guinea Pig Welfare Forum
Published on
20th September 2024
Read time
2 mins
On 19 September 2024, the UK saw its first-ever national event dedicated solely to guinea pig welfare: the Guinea Pig Welfare Forum, hosted by Burgess Pet Care at the Crowne Plaza in Birmingham. This pioneering event brought together experts, advocates, and professionals to shine a spotlight on the unique needs of guinea pigs—animals often overlooked in mainstream pet care discussions.
Why It Mattered
Guinea pigs are among the most popular small pets in the UK, yet their welfare needs are frequently misunderstood or neglected. The forum aimed to change that by fostering collaboration, sharing evidence-based knowledge, and laying the groundwork for a more informed and compassionate approach to guinea pig care.
Key Topics and Speakers
The day was packed with insightful presentations and discussions:
- Dr Sean Wensley (PDSA) explored how the five welfare domains can be applied to guinea pigs, offering a structured way to assess and improve their quality of life.
- Rae Walters (RWAF) shared the journey of forming a dedicated guinea pig welfare organisation, highlighting the importance of advocacy and community support.
- Dr Megan Kiln (University of Edinburgh) addressed the complexities of guinea pig nutrition and common dietary pitfalls.
- Professor Anne McBride (University of Southampton) delved into guinea pig behaviour and social needs, emphasising the importance of enrichment and companionship.
- Adina Valentine (Origin Vets) provided practical guidance on housing and husbandry for both indoor and outdoor setups.
- Mary Coles (University of Liverpool) discussed emerging disease trends and the link between poor welfare and health outcomes.
Collaboration and Action
Interactive workshops and a panel discussion allowed attendees to share experiences and brainstorm solutions. The atmosphere was one of collaboration and optimism, with a shared commitment to improving guinea pig welfare across the UK.
What’s Next?
The success of the 2024 forum has sparked momentum for future events. Planning is already underway for the 2025 Guinea Pig Welfare Forum, with hopes of expanding its reach and impact. The event also laid the foundation for the formation of Guinea Pig Welfare UK, a new organisation dedicated to research, education, and advocacy.
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