Furry Friends From Peru: Explore the World of Guinea Pigs
In Furry Friends From Peru: Explore the World of Guinea Pigs, host Rory Crawford introduces us to the adorable world of guinea pigs and teaches us how to keep them happy and healthy! Rory explains the different types of fur guinea pigs can have — smooth, wiry, or long — and how to set up a comfy hutch for them with soft bedding, hay, and fresh water. Learn about their favorite snacks, like dandelion leaves, and the best ways to care for these friendly pets! This video is excerpted from BBC’s My Pet and Me, a children’s show that introduces kids to the rewards and responsibilities involved when having a pet.
Lesson Express
Q: Why do guinea pigs need to live with other guinea pigs instead of being alone? How does living with a friend make a difference to them?
A: Guinea pigs are social animals and like to be with others of their kind. Living with a friend helps them feel safe, happy, and less lonely, which is important for their well-being. Being with other guinea pigs also allows them to communicate and play together, making their lives more enjoyable.
Q: Imagine you’re setting up a guinea pig’s hutch. What would you include in it, and why is each item important?
A: I would include a layer of newspaper at the bottom to keep things clean, sawdust for soft bedding, and hay for them to nest in and eat. Each item is important: newspaper makes cleaning easier, sawdust provides comfort, and hay keeps them cozy and well-fed.
Q: Why is it important to clean a guinea pig’s hutch every week? How might it affect the guinea pigs if the hutch isn’t kept clean?
A: Cleaning the hutch every week helps keep the guinea pigs healthy by removing dirt and old bedding, which can build up bacteria and bad smells. If the hutch isn’t kept clean, the guinea pigs could get sick from germs or feel uncomfortable in their home.