A California resident has loved guinea pigs since childhood, so she decided to found a sanctuary for them.
More than 20 years ago, 49-year-old Los Angeles resident Saskia Chiesa founded the largest shelter for domestic pigs.
Saskia has been crazy about these cute little animals since childhood and even considers them her talisman.
In a city as large as Los Angeles, there are plenty of shelters for cats, dogs, and wild animals, but there aren't any for guinea pigs. So, the woman decided to found a shelter for her beloved pets.
At first, Saskia was unsure about her idea, but within a month, her shelter already housed more than 20 piglets that had been abandoned by their owners for one reason or another.
Currently, the Los Angeles Guinea Pig Rescue shelter is home to over 360 animals. Since its founding, several thousand guinea pigs have been adopted. The owner searches for abandoned animals at other shelters and brings them to hers to find loving homes for them.
The woman says many people abandon guinea pigs because of skin conditions. Unfortunately, it's often easier to abandon the animal to its fate than to take it to the vet for treatment.
At Los Angeles Guinea Pig Rescue, our pets receive comprehensive care, including manicures, and grooming.
Lots of people come to the shelter to adopt one of the pigs. Children are thrilled to just come and play with the animals.
Saskia gives short lectures on guinea pig care. She also emphasizes that guinea pigs need plenty of space and should not be kept in cages.
