Exercise for Pregnant Sow

Question
Usually I let my female guinea pig run around in an exercise pen everyday because I have a smaller cage. My female is pregnant (on purpose) and I want to provide her entertainment and exercise (or at least a good leg stretch!) but I heard you shouldn't handle pregnant sows that often because it causes stress. Should I just put her in there when I clean her cage or can I keep giving her her daily exercise in the pig pen? Thanks

Answer
Hi Katrina,

    It is true that pregnant sows should not be handled excessively, but daily excercise and attention are vital to a healthy pregnancy.  Picking her up gently and correctly, supporting her weight and her bottom, should not harm or stress her very much.
    You are doing the right thing when it comes to excercise - many people to not realize that it is so important.  Daily vitamins are also good, in the form of vegetables or vitamin supplemental droplets (purchased at a local pet store)

    Thank you for your question, I hope I have been of some help to you.  If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to ask.  Good luck with your guinea pigs (=

                                               - Nicole