Name of shelter or rescue organization where you got your pet
from pet shop because local shelters did not have guinea pigs at the time

Pet's Story or Bio
Pepita's owner (Tracy) has cared for 15 guinea pigs over the past 20+ years, in pairs and trios since they are social animals. Several of her beloved pets were adopted from local shelters or individuals -- each one very special, and all considered family.

Pepita came home as a young guinea pig who fit in one cupped hand, to join two other females (one elderly, one young). Her name means "nugget of gold" and "may God increase" -- in addition to the word for a little pumpkin seed. This photo was before her 1st birthday.

Now she's part of another trio, this time as a Big Sister. The endearing critters keep Tracy smiling... plus friends/family who visit or see photos of them. They live in a large homemade cage and have weekly playtime on the floor (contained and monitored), where they explore various tunnels and toys.

Though Pepita is slowing down since the zoomies of her youth (she'll be 5 this November), she still squeaks when a plastic bag crinkles to announce fresh veggies on the way, stands eagerly with nose in the air whenever a juicy grape tomato arrives as a treat, and often settles comfortably in a plush cuddle cup (learned from her first friends).

Tracy is grateful for all the giggles and snuggles, as a guinea-pig aficionado for decades.