Guinea pigs and chinchillas are often lumped together as "small pets," but they have very different needs. If you're moving either one, here's what you should know.
Guinea pigs
Diet. Guinea pigs can't make their own vitamin C, so they need it every day from fresh food or supplements. On a travel day, pack bell pepper pieces, leafy greens and their usual pellets. Unlimited hay is a must, just as with rabbits.
Company. Guinea pigs are social and usually travel best with their bonded companion. They may squeak or "wheek" more than usual when stressed; that's normal.
Temperature. Like rabbits, guinea pigs are sensitive to heat. Keep them cool, shaded and out of drafts.
Hides. A small hide in the carrier gives them somewhere to retreat. Guinea pigs startle easily, and a place to hide helps them settle.
Chinchillas
Heat is the big danger. Chinchillas come from high, cool mountains and have extremely dense fur. They can overheat at temperatures that feel mild to us, especially when it's humid. Many chinchilla owners aim to keep them below the mid-20s °C at all times. In a vehicle, this means reliable air conditioning and constant temperature monitoring.
Humidity. High humidity makes heat stress worse and can affect their coat. Keep the air dry and moving.
No water baths. Chinchillas clean themselves with dust baths. Skip the dust bath during travel (it's messy in a carrier), and offer one after arrival.
Diet. Hay, their usual pellets and water at stops. Avoid sudden new treats that could upset their stomach.
Carriers. Chinchillas are agile jumpers and chewers. Use a sturdy plastic or metal carrier, not cardboard or soft fabric.
Warning signs to watch for
- Guinea pigs: Not eating, lethargy, sitting hunched, heavy breathing.
- Chinchillas: Lying stretched out, red ears, rapid breathing, drooling. Heat stress in a chinchilla is an emergency.
Crossing borders
Both species are covered by general rules for small mammals, which can change. Check the CFIA's Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) and USDA APHIS well before a cross-border move.
After arrival
Set up the enclosure quickly, in a quiet, cool room. Give your pets time to settle. Offer a dust bath to chinchillas. Monitor eating and droppings for the first day or two.
4Paws Movers keeps small mammals in temperature-monitored, climate-controlled vehicles. Tell us which species you have when you request a quote so we can plan the right temperature range.
Planning a move with your pet?
4Paws Movers offers dedicated, climate-controlled ground transport across Ontario and cross-border into the U.S., plus airport cargo drop-off. Every fee is published.