Guinea Pig Welfare Forum 2025: What to Expect from This Year’s Groundbreaking Event

Following the success of its inaugural event in 2024, the Guinea Pig Welfare Forum returns on Wednesday, 10 September 2025, at the Crowne Plaza Birmingham City Centre. Organised by Burgess Pet Care, this one-of-a-kind forum continues its mission to elevate guinea pig welfare through expert-led education, collaboration, and advocacy.

 Event Details

• Date: Wednesday, 10 September 2025
• Time: 09:30 – 17:00 BST
• Location: Crowne Plaza Birmingham City Centre, Holliday Street, Birmingham B1 1HH
• Tickets: £10 (with all proceeds supporting guinea pig welfare)
• Register via Eventbrite 

Speaker Line-Up

This year’s forum features a diverse panel of experts in guinea pig health, behaviour, and welfare:

• John Chitty, RCVS Advanced Practitioner in Zoological Medicine (Chair)
• Abi Edis, Registered Veterinary Nurse
• Alison Wills, Lecturer, University of Central Lancashire
• Mary Coles, PhD Researcher, University of Liverpool
• Lauren Fenton, Registered Veterinary Nurse
• Paul Betchley, Head of Zoological and Park Operations, Beale Park
• David Griffiths, Senior Animal Welfare Officer, Winchester City Council
• Rik Cridland, Founder, HayPigs! 

Topics and Sessions

The day will be split into two main segments:

• Morning Research Forum:
  • Musculoskeletal conditions
  • Renal disease
  • Stress management
  • Common welfare concerns
• Afternoon Sessions:
  • Husbandry and housing practices
  • Zoo-based perspectives on wild cavies
  • Inspection standards for pet vending
  • Ethical treatment and wellness priorities 

Why It Matters

The forum offers a vital platform for veterinary professionals, welfare advocates, educators, and pet owners to share knowledge, challenge outdated practices, and promote evidence-based care. With interactive workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, it’s a must-attend event for anyone passionate about guinea pig welfare.

Looking Ahead

As the guinea pig community continues to grow, so does the need for informed, compassionate care. The 2025 forum promises to build on last year’s momentum and drive meaningful change across the UK.