Hannah was surrendered to Hamilton Animal Services when her owner could no longer care for her. At six years old, Hannah is a senior, as far as guinea pigs go. She’s a lovely little pig, but because of some issues she had while she was at the shelter, staff reached out to us for help. When she arrived at the shelter, Hannah had urine scalding on her hind end and feet, and she was having issues with her urine. We took Hannah directly to the vet where an xray showed that she was suffering from bladder sludge. Bladder sludge is a term used to describe gritty calcium-based particles that collect in the bladder. Sludge can be caused by frequent urinary tract infections, improper diet, and inadequate water intake. We got Hannah started on medication, and she was transferred to a foster home. She’s doing well there so far – eating, drinking, and enjoying the large living space and all the attention she’s receiving from her foster family. Hopefully the medication will help, and Hannah can feel better again soon. She’ll be available for adoption when she’s given the all clear from our vets.

Welcome to Ladybird, Hannah! We’re so happy you’re here!

May 16/23 UPDATE!

From Hannah’s foster mom:
“We had Hannah’s follow up appointment with Dr Stubbs tonight. She has another 2 weeks of medication. She still has blood in her urine, and still super stinky urine. She has lost a small amount of weight despite her eating well for us.
Dr. Stubbs said Hannah is too skinny/fragile right now to be put under anaesthetic to clean her bladder out.
We have to go back in 2 weeks for another follow up. So we have 2 weeks to fatten her up!! Dr. Stubbs has told us to modify her diet slightly with less pellets and more alfalfa hay etc.
She is still very happy though and squeaks and talks all day. She really is just such a sweet little piggie 💕”

Go Hannah!

June 27/23

A sad update. Poor Hannah lost her fight. She had seemed to really be improving over the past month. She had gained weight and was happy and loving with her foster family. But overnight it became apparent that she wasn’t doing well at all. She stopped eating and was huddled up in her house, not moving around much. Her foster family got her to the vet right away, but Hannah was too far gone. Seems that her kidneys were shutting down and there was no medical intervention that could have helped. We let Hannah go peacefully, surrounded by love.

Rest in peace, sweet Hannah. We’ll never forget your sweet face.