Our Story
We are a very lively guinea pig sanctuary in Carmel, Indiana!
Our guinea pig family started with two very sweet girls, Greta and Mochi. We were so excited to provide these girls with a loving home and were learning all we could about piggies while meeting as many as possible.
We quickly realized major pet chain stores provide barely enough room for one guinea pig in their enclosures, let along the six or eight they would house together. We saw signs at these stores saying "Guinea pigs for adoption," but no pigs were in the cages. Instead, they had them housed in tiny cages in dark closets. We were told "people only want to buy the cute younger ones. When they reach about six months old and adult size, no one wants them." We did!
We have rescued many pigs, including those that chain stores assumed "no one wanted." We have adopted surrendered piggies left at pet stores, where they sat huddled and frightened in cages meant for hamsters or gerbils. We have nearly altogether stopped supporting chain pet stores, unless one of our cavies needs something immediately (like a new water bottle). Our pigs have ample space, companionship, attention and fresh veggies every day, We have reusable bedding that is designed especially for guinea pigs' comfort. We strive to educate others about being responsible pet owners and will ask if you're the right fit for our guinea pigs, not if they are the right fit for you.
We have rigorous expectations of those interested in adopting a Harmony Grove guinea pig, including (but not limited to):
You have proof of enough space for an appropriate cage. We use Midwest or C&C standards and expect a minimum of a 2x3 cage for two pigs
Guinea pigs may only be adopted in pairs (unless you have another pig who can provide a companion for your new piggy. Cavies are very social animals and should never be alone. Some countries (like Switzerland) consider buying/adopting one guinea pig against the law because they need at least one companion for their mental and emotional well-being.
You sign a contract agreeing your Harmony Grove guinea pig is not intended to be food for another animal or yourself
You agree to treat your guinea pigs with love, dignity and respect.
If this process is too rigorous for you, then you aren't a fit for our guinea pigs. We put in the extra work to protect them and are interested in working with people who are willing to do the same. Our adoption fees help us maintain our sanctuary and go directly to providing our piggies with high quality hay, pellets, reusable bedding, toys and, most importantly, lots of fresh vegetables!
