he organisers behind Guinea Pig Awareness Week (GPAW), the only UK-wide campaign dedicated to improving guinea pigs’ welfare, are delighted to confirm this year’s theme as Nibble, Nourish, Thrive.
From 23rd – 27th September, GPAW will throw the spotlight on the importance of guinea pigs’ diet, as well as highlighting other key aspects of guinea pig care.
Now in its fourth year, this year’s GPAW will launch on Monday 23rd September at Hog Springs, a unique space located within Northumberland Zoo, which was created to rehome several guinea pigs from local charity, Gerty’s Lonely Guinea Pig Rescue.
Supported by some of the UK’s leading animal welfare charities Blue Cross, Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare, the RSPCA and Woodgreen Pets Charity, Guinea Pig Awareness Week will run as a digital campaign on Facebook, Instagram and X. In the run up to GPAW and throughout the week, there will be lots of great content all about guinea pigs’ welfare, especially their diet, and how vets’ practices can get involved and help spread the word.
Veterinary professionals and practices can get behind the latest campaign by accessing online resources including free downloadable veterinary packs, which are full of great resources to help organise and promote in-house digital events.
Dr Suzanne Moyes MVB, MRCVS, Deputy Managing Director and In-house Vet at Burgess Pet Care, says: “We’re so excited to see the return of GPAW for a fourth year and to launch this year’s campaign at Hog Springs, a fabulous set up where guinea pigs’ welfare is of paramount importance and they are thriving, having been given a second chance.
“GPAW really matters because despite their popularity, guinea pigs are among the most misunderstood pets in the UK. A lack of knowledge means that their welfare – including their diet – is often overlooked; for instance, without essential fibre, guinea pigs’ teeth can become overgrown, so it’s important they can munch on feeding hay to help keep their ever-growing teeth in good shape.”
Any veterinary professionals interested in supporting this year’s GPAW can download a free GPAW digital pack here: – https://guineapigawarenessweek.com
