Contributor: Amanda Fisher, DVM, MSc

Amanda Fisher, DVM, MSc

Amanda Fisher completed her veterinary medical education at Atlantic Veterinary College at the University of Prince Edward Island in 2009. She then completed a 3-year residency and master’s program in comparative medicine at Texas A&M University. Dr. Fisher currently serves as a senior clinical veterinarian in the University of Pittsburgh Division of Laboratory Animal Resources, and she has worked in this department since 2012. Her clinical focus includes laboratory animal medicine and primate medicine…

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Behavior Essentials: Clinical Approach to the Guinea Pig

Guinea pigs are small, docile rodents, that must be approached with great care. Accurate evaluation of patient health status requires a thorough history, careful visual examination, and a detailed physical examination. Like most prey species, the guinea pig frequently hides signs of pain and illness. To improve clinical success, take measures to minimize stress by maintaining the animal in a quiet exam room and approaching the patient in a slow, quiet manner. The hospitalized guinea pig can also benefit greatly from the presence of a bonded cage mate. Monitor appetite and eliminations carefully in the guinea pig, and offer the same diet as fed in the patient’s home whenever possible as guinea pigs establish strong food preferences early in life.