Words by Kade Krichko
Small, cute, and low maintenance, guinea pigs are a popular furry companion. But did you know that those companions need companions? Guinea pigs, like parrots, goldfish, and a series of other creatures are considered social animals—a designation that not only describes their friendly disposition, but also their necessity for other members of the same species.
Switzerland takes this designation seriously, and has mandated that anyone considering owning a guinea pig must, by natural law, own at least two. This unique ordinance is part of Article 13 of Switzerland's Animal Protection Ordinance. While it is not heavily enforced, it is well known around town, and the law has influenced pet purchasing in the country.
The strange measure is quite in line with Switzerland's strict animal rights policies, restrictions considered some of the strictest in Europe. In addition to the guinea pig law, any Swiss citizen looking to own a cat or dog must ensure that their new pet must have daily contact with humans or daily visual contact with their respective species. We're not fooling, social creatures need friends too.
