Buddy's Story

Buddy was surrendered to ACS Brisbane Shelter on the 7th June 2007. We don't know much about Buddy's past but our precious Buddy sure came with his fair share of painful chronic conditions.

Buddy was suffering from Impaction which is a condition that older male guinea pigs can develop where the guinea pig is unable to expel faeces due to muscle weakness. Basically the perineal sac needs regular cleaning so that bacteria and faeces do not further accumulate. For further information on impaction please visit the following link http://www.guinealynx.com/impaction.html.

Buddy was also suffering from severe bumblefoot which is a very painful condition where if left untreated can become infected and in time result in death of the guinea pig from infection.

Their are certain things that can contribute to this sort of condition in a guinea pig which includes bad hygeine and filthy living conditions, small enclosures where the guinea pig is unable to move about and exercise and a more well known contributer which is harsh wire flooring or hard flooring. To prevent bumblefoot from occuring this is a large reason why ACS advise against using a cage with a wire floor. Guinea pigs have very soft pads on their feet and walking on harsh flooring their entire life is painful in itself for the guinea pig. To read more about bumblefoot please visit the following link http://www.guinealynx.com/pododermatitis.html

Buddy needed a good wash on arrival to the shelter and thankfully after several weeks in treatment and with quick action to the cleanliness of his surroundings and on a good diet, buddies condition improved quite rapidly. It was painful for Buddy to walk on his front feet they were very swollen and sore. Buddy continues to have slightly swollen feed but we hope that in time his condition will keep improving. Buddy has a beautiful soul he is gentle and loving and has glowing eyes. Every now and then we receive a piggy with a certain specialness about them into our shelter...Buddy is one of these piggies.

Buddy is now a permanent resident of ACS Brisbane Shelter. We simply couldn't let this special boy go. Below are photos of Buddy when he arrived at the shelter. Top right is before and top left is Buddy currently...alot happier and healthier!

(c) Copyright 2006, Australian Cavy Sanctuary. All rights reserved.