These little piggies get new homes (From Bournemouth Echo)

These little piggies get new homes

7:00pm Monday 26th July 2010 in

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A MUM of three has turned her Bournemouth home into a “guinea pig ranch”, re-homing more than 300 animals in nine months.

Shocked by the lack of specialist care for the popular pets in Dorset’s animal sanctuaries and with the nearest dedicated centre in Southampton, Sarah Collins decided to act.

New owners donate £10 per animal, which goes towards upkeep at The Guinea Pig Ranch, in Ibbotson Close, where there are currently 80 squeaking creatures.

Sarah, who’s travelled to Devon and Bedfordshire to collect unwanted pets, said: “I’ve met so many fantastic people from all walks of life and all ages.

“The guinea pigs take up a lot of my time – you have to be really careful in the hot weather we’re having that they’ve got shade and water.

“But I love it – people know me as the piggy lady now.”

Sarah’s children play an active role.

“They’re always helping me with water bottles and giving the piggies cuddles,” she said. “It’s great because being so hands-on teaches them respect for other life forms.”

Most guinea pigs are given up because owners move, become allergic or children get bored.

“You’re always going to get your special characters,” the 37-year-old said. “And I do get attached, but most of the time you have to draw a line and think about what’s best for the piggy.”

When someone wants to adopt a ranch resident, Sarah carries out a home visit and gives advice on care.

She does not pass animals on for breeding.

Some guinea pigs have medical conditions and cannot be re-homed, and the ranch’s vet bills average £100 a week, so donations of food, bedding and toys are welcome.

Visit www.theguineapigranch.

co.uk for information.

Sarah’s next open day is on Sunday, August 1 from 10am-6pm.

She also offers a ‘cage mate’ service – if you’ve lost one guinea pig, Sarah will try and find the remaining one a pal to buddy up with.