human interaction

Question
We received a baby guinea, although she is about 3 1/2 months old now - we've had her since the beginning of April. I'm concerned that she hasn't mellowed some and she doesn't like to be held. She is constantly trying to run away and as much as I'd like for my daughter to have a pet, I'm getting tired of the scratches on my arms.(We've had her claws trimmed, but just 2 weeks later and they are sharp enough to leave very visible scratches on my arms. Looks like a cat got me!)  Everyone tells me that guineas are easy going pets who will just sit in your lap, or that they are playful...not ours! We take her out everyday to try to help her get used to us, but she isn't interested. She just wants to hide in her house. I'd really like some insight and/or suggestions.  

Answer
Hi Robin

As a rule guinea pigs do like being handled but, as with everything else, there are exceptions. It just sounds like you have one of those pigs that just wants to be left alone.

One thing that might help (it also might not) is to get her a piggy friend. This sometimes mellow the pig if you have 2 on your knee at the same time.

andy