eating habits and introducing new animals

Question
We have a female ginuea pig. We have had her since early March 2006 and she is about a year old. On Sunday 8/27/06 we purchased a male black lab puppy and he is 7 weeks old. Natalie(our ginuea pig) last ate Sunday morning before we went to pick up our new puppy. Since we returned home with the puppy she will not eat anything. I have tried feeding her hay, pellets and a variety of fresh fruits and veggies that she used to eat daily. Anyways , my I was wondering if the introduction of a new animal was causing some kind of stress with Natalie that is stopping her from eating, or if you know what else could be causing this. Also do you know of anything I could try to get her eating again?
Thank you in advance for your help!
Melissa

Answer
Hi Melissa

It is possible that the lack of eating could have been caused by the dog but it equally could be for many reasons.

I am worried that your pig hasnt eaten for a few days so you really must consider a trip to the vet ASAP as if any more time elapses, Natalie will be putting her health at risk.

You might like to consider administering some food into her mouth using a plastic syringe.

Good luck

andy