Biting and bald spots

Question
I recently inherited a guinea pig from a co-worker and he is very sweet but isn't big on being touched. I've had him for several months now and let him walk around a bitin the kitchen and will sit and hold him each evening while on the computer. He really likes this a lot and makes lots of noises. The thing is, I will try to pet him while holding him and he will nip at me. He only want attention for a few minutes and then wants to be left alone to sit on my lap to run up and down and lay on my chest and nip at my neck. Is this normal? I was always under the impression that pigs loved attention. In a lot of ways he reminds me of my cats. Is he just a tempermental boy who likes things his way?  

Another question I have is about his fur. He is the type of pig thats fur always looks all ruffled (I'm not sure what type that is) and ever since I've had him, he has has had these small circular bald patches on both sides just behind his ears. (in the exact same spots)that in no way look sore or seem to bother him but after reading a bit on pigs I wondered if this might be a sign of mites. He is active, eyes are shiney and nose looks clear and he only scrathes himself occassionally. The spots look nothing like what I've seen on the interenet but thought it would be in his best interrest to check.

BTW, if you think that he should be treated where do I buy the medicine? The pet store or do I go to the vet?

Thank you for your help!

A. Looper

Answer
A. Looper --

Good questions.  I am so glad you are concerned for the welfare of your animals.  To answer your first question ... that is perfectly normal.  Guinea pigs normally do like attention, but, like people, there are variations in how much attention they crave.  It could be that you just have a individual pig that doesn't care for too much attention.  I wouldn't worry about it.  Just give him the attention he wants.

To answer your second question -- that is perfectly normal too.  All guinea pigs (at least all that I've ever seen) will have bald spots behind their ears.  I'm sure there is a biological reason, but I don't know what that would be.  I wouldn't worry about mites unless you notice lots of scratching and LARGE amounts of hair loss.

Hope this answers all your questions.  If you have any more, or if you need more information, please don't hesitate to call me.  Good luck!

Lorena