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Article By: JohnSavage
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The Fascinating Story of the Guinea Pig
They are adorable creatures that make excellent pets, but they have not always been a family pet, so what is their history and where were they first discovered?
Well let me shock you by firstly saying that they are actually rodents, and are technically known as Cavies, but don't let all this put you off, please read on.
These delightful animals have been around for millions of years, and we know this because of fossilised remains that have been uncovered and it is only relatively recently that they have become a family pet.
Now for something else to surprise you, they used to be much larger than they are today, averaging around 9 feet long. That's a sizeable pet.
Now where do they come from? Well they originated in South America, and were first domesticated by the Incas. They were both a religious Icon, and sadly a source of food, and this is still the case even today in parts of Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador.
Ever thought a rodent would be considered to have healing powers? Well in some parts of Peru they believe this and they think that the guinea pig can aid the transition from this life to the next. Now that is quite something!
The guinea pig first arrived in Europe and America as a result of sailors bringing them there to sell for one guinea, and this is how they got their name.
The other part of the name comes from what is in my opinion a vague likeness to the rear end of a pig, and also to the tendency to squeal like a pig.
They have also been used quite a bit over the years in the field of research, and you have probably heard and used the expression "we are using him as a guinea pig"
Many years ago medical science cottoned on to the idea of using guinea pigs in their research, and although the downside was the end for the guinea pig, the upside is that it has saved many a human life.
Even today they are still used for research but in a more humane way which we are told does not cause any distress to the animal.
Today in Peru, guinea pigs still play a prominent role in various ceremonies, and quite often a person will give one as a present when they are trying to impress.
Isn't it amazing that what is in effect a rodent could become such a popular pet? During a recent survey it was found that guinea pigs came just fourth in popularity behind dogs, cats and rabbits.
Next time you look into a friends cage at their pet I think you will appreciate all the more what you are looking at.
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Next thing check out John Savages excellent website on guinea pigs where you can pick up some free articles and detailed descriptions on these great pets.
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