Switzerland enforces several laws to protect animals.
The country’s most unusual rule makes owning a single guinea pig illegal.
Guinea pigs need companionship from their own species to stay happy.
The law views keeping just one as a form of animal abuse, ZME Science reported.
These furry, hamster-like pets form strong bonds with owners and cage-mates.
When a companion dies, Swiss owners must promptly find another guinea pig to keep the survivor company.
Priska Küng runs a matchmaking service for lonely guinea pigs and is frequently called to help.
“They hardly ever die at the same time, even if they are exactly the same age, people who don’t want a new guinea pig and lose one of their two animals need an interim solution,” Küng explained.
The outlet described her service as “high demand.”
Guinea pigs dislike being alone but they can be selective about friends.
“A young animal can annoy a four or five-year-old guinea pig by being too temperamental and active,” Küng said.
She also noted the reverse happens.
Küng has paired elderly guinea pigs with younger companions that reinvigorated them.
Beyond guinea pig rules, Switzerland maintains other strict animal-welfare requirements.
Prospective dog owners must take a class on proper care and handling before adopting.
Fishermen are required to complete a course on humane fishing before they may fish.