would you suggest a guinea pig to a home with a ten and thirteen year old?

If the dog didn't bother the rats, then it probably won't bother the guinea pig as well since it is already used to having small animals around. However, supervision shouldn't be lax just because of that.

Please check out these excellent websites about guinea pig care. Guinea pigs are great pets, but do have a lot more care requirements than people think:
www.guinealynx.com
www.cavycages.com

If your dog didn't care about the rats, he probably won't care about the guinea pig either! Good luck!

I have had guinea pigs since I was 5, and they make great pets. I currently have 2 guinea pig and a dog. My dog always wants to play with the guinea pigs, so they should not be in the same room as the dog unless under strict supervision. They make better pets then dogs in my opinion because they do not require as much work as dogs, but they still do require some attention. I would recommend a guinea pig with short hair as a first guinea pig because they do not need as much grooming. Each breed of guinea pig is slightly different, so make sure you get one that suits you best!

I think a guinea pig would make a great pet for you, you just have to make sure you clean its cage on a regular basis.

The dog would most likely not bother with the guinea pig. Hopefully, if this is the pet you want and will love and take care of, your mom will agree! Good luck!

They make great pets for anyone of any age.

(Thanks for the heads up, Cindy) I volunteer with a guinea pig rescue, Critter Corral, and have had guinea pigs most of my life. They are the best pets you can possibly have. They don't need to be walked like a dog, but they are extremely social animals so they either need you to give them attention, or a cagemate to keep them happy. They need a large cage, large enough for them to be able to run laps. Minimum 2' x 2', but bigger is better. You can make one cheaply out of coroplast and grids but you'd have to be sure your dog couldn't get into it. Dogs are prey animals and can kill a guinea pig in play. GP's need guinea pig pellets (they have vitamin c which is essential, unlimited hay (no alfalfa for adults), fresh veggies (no head lettuce - too much water in it & causes loose droppings, although romaine is good), a drop water bottle with fresh water daily. No salt licks, wheels or hamster balls. Bedding should be Carefresh or dried pine or aspen, NO cedar. Cedar is dangerous for small animals due to the oils in it. You can train your guinea pig basic tricks; to call you when it's hungry, to follow you around if you train it with a treat. I had one that would shake hands. They are VERY interactive as long as you give them attention. If you neglect them, they will withdraw and will be unhappy. I wouldn't recommend that you go to a breeder. A shelter or rescue is a better idea since you are giving one a second chance. A rescue will be able to match a personality for you. They are as different as people are and you will be able to find one that suits you perfectly. If you have other questions, please contact me and I can give you a lot more info. Good luck!

They make great first pets!

I had guinea pigs for several years and they are cute, but they are not very rewarding pets because they don't really do anything. I got tired of taking care of them after a while, but if you think you can do that, then go ahead!

I have had guinea pigs and they are cute, but you really can't do much with them. They stay in their cage. You can let them out to run around, but the do go potty wherever. Thats why it is best to give them confined. You have to keep their cage very clean too with wood shavings as they do make alot of messes. And smelly too. The little noises they make are cute. Don't give them too much lettuce as they will get even messier and smellier. But they do need some along with their pellets. Good luck