First class guidelines to choose your second pet

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Valentine's Day may be long gone but our pets still need lots of love, rabbits and guinea pigs especially needing to live with others of the same species. Dogs also require companionship to live their best lives so what should you look out for when choosing a second pet?

PDSA vet Nurse Nina Downing said: “Many of our pets are sociable by nature which means you might want to get them a furry friend as company and a playmate. But it’s important to make sure you get the right companion for your pet otherwise it could make things very difficult for both animals and you.

“It’s also important to remember that deciding to take on any new animal is a huge commitment, so think carefully about whether you have the time and finances to take on the responsibility of another pet before you make your decision.

Dogs

“While most dogs appreciate the company of their own species, there are some who may struggle to live with other dogs. You know your pet best so don’t force them to accept a new dog into the family if it makes them uncomfortable. Instead, provide them with human companionship, spend more time with them yourself or ask a friend, neighbour or dog walker to take them out for an extra walk each day so they’re not left alone for too long.

“A rehoming centre is a great place to start because it is a good way to find a dog with a personality that matches your pets. Speak to your local shelter to see if they have any dogs they think may be suitable. They can also tell you about the pet’s history and whether they get along well with other dogs or not.

“Make sure that you consider matching exercise ability and requirements too.”

Guinea pigs

“Wherever possible, we’d recommend getting your guinea pigs as established friends, whether they are littermates or a previously bonded pair. But, if you lose one of your guinea pigs or you already have just one guinea pig at home, you need to know how to find the right new friend to keep them both happy.

“Their friend should always be a guinea pig as rabbits and guinea pigs don’t tend to get along well together and some rabbits will bully guinea pigs.

"When introducing guinea pigs, take things slowly.”

For more advice visit https:// www.pdsa.org.uk/introducingguinea-pigs website.

Rabbits

“Rabbits kept on their own get lonely and stressed.

"This can lead to serious problems with their behaviour, sometimes displaying fear and frustration through aggression.

"As much as we love our bunnies, our company isn’t a replacement for having a rabbit friend as they have different needs and communicate in different ways.”