RAISING^UINEApiQs 



For almost 100 years, guinea pigs ha\'e been used 

 in laboratory work. Because their reactions to dif- 

 ferent tests are ^vell known, they are valuable in 

 studying disease symptoms and drug effects, stand- 

 ardizing vaccines and serums, and determining vita- 

 min content of foods. 



DESCRIPTION 



The guinea pig is a rodent that has a short, stocky 

 body, short legs, and no tail. The differences be- 

 tween the principal types are mainly in hair char- 

 acteristics and color. 



The hair of a guinea pig may be smooth and short, 

 rough and short, or silky and long. 



Most of the colors seen in guinea pigs are solid — 

 black, chocolate, red, tan, or golden agouti (hair 

 colored in alternate dark and light bands) . 



Some guinea pigs have fur of mixed colors — 

 agouti, black with red or tan, or the same colors 

 with white spotting. A few other colors have been 

 developed by breeders who supply animals for 

 laboratories. 



BUYING AND SELLING 



Guinea pigs may be bought from pet stores or 

 laboratory supply houses.^ Or, for names of dealers 

 and reference books, write to the Institute of Labo- 

 ratory Animal Kesources, National Research Council, 

 National Academy of Sciences, 2101 Constitution 

 Avenue XW., Washington 25, D.C. 



Breeding animals usually are sold in pairs, or trios 

 of one male and two females. Breeding guinea pigs 

 are usually more expensive than general laboratory 

 stock. 



Producers of laboratory animals usually sell to 

 hospitals, laboratories, or dealers. 



Before making an investment, find out whether 

 you can sell laboratory animals in your area. Find 

 out whether guinea pigs are needed or whether other 



' The Department of Agriculture does not purchase guinea 

 pigs and has no animals for sale or free distribution. 



