eChipmunks

Is it okay to let the guinea pig run around outside when there are squirrels and chipmunks around?

The squirrels and chipmunks are friendly, as far as i know. Would they try and pick a fight with my guinea pig? I know about the hawks, etc. I usually put a clothes basket or something over my pet, and she just eats the grass on the lawn.

Public Comments

1. I'd be much more concerned about any hawks or predatory birds in the area than chipmunks.
2. What would make your guinea pig real happy would be if you were to get some chicken wire 3' high and make a 10 to 12 foot circle and put him in it. Set on the outside of the circle and talk softly to him so he know he is safe and he will have a blase eating grass and running about. It may take him a couple of times to really feel safe so he will run and not just set in one spot eating but he will quite quickly. The chicken wire protects him form the neighborhood cats which are the real predictors you need to watch out for, with you setting there the hawks stay away. You want to keep the wire in the shade as guinea pigs are pron to heat stoke if left in the sun, however the wire cage is very easy to move with the sun and keep in the shade. You do want to make sure the grass has not been treated with anything for bugs or to kill weeds as that will kill your guinea pig.
3. Hello Ross G, It isn't a good idea, they may even attack each other, so I really wouldn't risk it. Well, the best thing is to get a run, so your guinea pig can eat the grass without your supervision and be safe! I have a huge run on the grass (with a top) , with an indoor part so the sun won't burn their precious skin. Then, once you have a run, when it is warm and not raining your piggy can chew grass for about 5 hours in the day, depending on the weather. He can also get his excersize, and you won't have to constantly watch him and stay with him. As one of the other answeres stated, please don't put your guinea pig on an area treated with chemicals of any kind! These will harm yuor guinea pi when he eats it. HOPE I HELPED!
4. Well, I wouldn't say completely don't do it: But make a big playpen or use chicken wire to make a fenced in large play area. That way, they have lots of space; but it's easier for you to keep a very close eye on them and have easy access to them. Always be sure to keep an extremely close eye on your guinea pig while he/she's outside, because they're naturally known as prey! Also, always be aware of your and your guinea pig's surroundings. Watch for any creeping animals, or anything of that nature. Good luck, hope I helped :)