Love is in the air this week for Valentine’s Day, and many of our pets are no exception. Rabbits and guinea pigs especially need to live with others of the same species, and dogs also require companionship to live their best lives, so what should you look out for when choosing a second pet?

PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing explains: “Many of our pets are sociable by nature which means you might want to get them a furry friend as company and a playmate. But it’s important to make sure you get the right companion for your pet otherwise it could make things very difficult for both animals and you.

“It’s also important to remember that deciding to take on any new animal is a huge commitment, so think carefully about whether you have the time and finances to take on the responsibility of another pet before you make your decision.

“While most dogs appreciate the company of their own species, there are some who may struggle to live with other dogs. You know your pet best - don’t force them to accept a new dog into the family if it makes them uncomfortable.

"Instead, provide them with human companionship - spend more time with them yourself or ask a friend, neighbour or dog walker to take them out for an extra walk each day, so they’re not left alone for too long.  

"However, if your dog enjoys the company of another dog, you feel that it’s the right time in life for you, and your finances can comfortably support two dogs, then look for a dog who your current pooch will get along with. For example, if they are fairly chilled out, or elderly, then an excitable puppy jumping in their face might cause a bit of tension.

“A rehoming centre is a great place to start because it is a good way to find a dog with a personality that matches your pets. Speak to your local shelter to see if they have any dogs they think may be suitable. They can also tell you about the pet’s history and whether they get along well with other dogs or not. You will then be able to arrange a few meetings between them before you commit.

“Make sure that you consider matching exercise ability and requirements, too. Puppies won’t be able to go on walks with your dog until fully vaccinated and you will have to wait quite a few months for your puppy to be old enough to match your older dog’s walks. Likewise, a much older dog, stiff with arthritis, and a much younger bouncy and active dog may not blend well, so your new dog will need to fit into your family and current lifestyle.”

Once you have chosen your pet’s companion, you’ll need to introduce them. Find out more here:  http://Introducing dogs - PDSA

“Wherever possible, we’d recommend getting your guinea pigs as established friends – whether they are littermates or a previously bonded pair.” 

“But if you lose one of your guinea pigs, or you already have just one guinea pig at home, you need to know how to find the right new friend to keep them both happy.

“Their friend should always be a guinea pig - rabbits and guinea pigs don’t tend to get along well together and some rabbits will bully guinea pigs. Rabbits can also carry a bacteria which usually doesn’t affect them, but can make guinea pigs dangerously ill.

“Guinea pigs are commonly kept in single sex groups, so a pair of males or a pair of females. Pairings of male and female guinea pigs can also work well - just make sure they are neutered to prevent any unwanted litters! 

“If you have a group of three or more guinea pigs, it’s often recommended to have only one (neutered) male in the group - in the wild, most groups live as a single male with several females.

“When introducing guinea pigs, take things slowly, not all guinea pigs are compatible. It’s important to think about your guinea pig’s personality and pick a friend that is likely to suit them.

"For example, if your guinea pig is active, choose them a friend that loves to play, but if they’d rather snuggle up, a quieter companion might be better. Rescue centres can be incredibly helpful when match making, with many offering a ‘bonding service’.’”

For more advice visit: https://www.pdsa.org.uk/introducing-guinea-pigs

“Rabbits kept on their own get lonely and stressed. This can lead to serious problems with their behaviour, sometimes displaying fear and frustration through aggression. As much as we love our bunnies, our company isn’t a replacement for having a rabbit friend – they have different needs and communicate in different ways.

“For the happiest bunnies, we suggest keeping a neutered male with a neutered female, though same sex pairings can work too. If you can home a brother and sister together, that’s ideal as they’ll already know each other.

“If you have an existing rabbit and would like to provide a companion, you will need a neutered, vaccinated friend, to keep your rabbit safe. Your local rabbit rescue will happily help introduce you and your rabbit to suitable candidates waiting for a new home. Like with guinea pigs, many offer a ‘bonding service’ to encourage more successful pairings.

“If you’re keeping any male and female rabbits together, it’s really important to get them neutered. It’ll stop them from having babies as well as protect them from serious illnesses.”