Animal Science
Adams County 4-H Cavy Project
The guinea pig or “cavy” is a domesticated animal likely derived from the Andean montane guinea pig (Cavia tschudii) found in Peru, Bolivia, Argentina, and Chile, according to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. Guinea pigs have been domesticated for thousands of years.
Participants in this 4-H program will learn about cavy breeds, basic care, and showmanship. Adams county also offers cavy workshops several times a year.
Exhibition Requirements
Cavy Project members who intend to exhibit their animal(s) at the Adams County Fair must
complete the following:
- Enroll in the Cavy Project in 4-H Online
- Complete and submit an Animal Care and Housing Form to the 4-H office by June 1
- Identify all cavies in 4-H Online by June 1
- Required in 4-H Online:
- Animal name
- Date acquired
- Breed = “Other,” and then enter “Cavy” on next line
- Sex
- Optional in 4-H Online:
- Photo
- Weight
- Required in 4-H Online:
- Get your cavies tagged at our county clinic or elsewhere
- Keep record of your cavy project in the Companion Animal Record Book available for download on the Colorado 4-H website
- Present an up-to-date Companion Animal Record Book (also called e-record) with a green record book cover at Record Book Interviews
- Enter fair classes on the Fair Entry website by July 1
- Complete and turn in the Companion Animal Record Book with a green cover by Friday before Labor Day to the Extension Office.
Learning Opportunities
Cavy Workshops are held several times a year at the Fairgrounds.
Subscribe to the Adams County Fourcast Newsletter for the latest 4-H project and event updates.