The Guinea Pig Welfare Forum (GPWF) will return for its second year on 10 September 2025 at the Crowne Plaza Birmingham City Centre, bringing together a line-up of expert speakers in guinea pig health, behaviour, and welfare.
Following the success of its inaugural event in 2024, the forum, organised by Burgess Pet Care, will unite veterinary professionals, welfare organisations, and researchers to share the latest developments, clinical findings, and practical insights that help shape best practice in guinea pig care across the UK. John Chitty will return to chair the 2025 event.
Peter Lancaster, Head of Marketing at Burgess Pet Care, said: “We’re excited to welcome a wide range of expert voices to this year’s forum. Building on the momentum of 2024’s event, we want to continue driving positive change across key areas of guinea pig care, including social housing, nutrition, wellness, and ethical treatment.
“Attendees can expect a full day of expert presentations, interactive panel discussions, and networking opportunities, all designed to support continuous improvement in guinea pig welfare and care standards, while exploring the species’ history and development.”
Confirmed speakers include:
- John Chitty, RCVS Advanced Practitioner in Zoological Medicine
- Abi Edis, Registered Veterinary Nurse
- Alison Wills, Lecturer, University of Central Lancashire
- Mary Coles, PhD Researcher, University of Liverpool
- Lauren Fenton, Registered Veterinary Nurse
- Paul Betchley, Head of Zoological and Park Operations, Beale Park
- David Griffiths, Senior Animal Welfare Officer, Winchester City Council
- Rik Cridland, Founder, HayPigs!
The morning Research Forum will feature presentations on key clinical topics such as musculoskeletal conditions, renal disease, common welfare concerns, and stress management in guinea pigs. Afternoon sessions will delve into husbandry and welfare issues, including zoo-based perspectives on wild cavies, current health priorities, inspection standards for pet vending, and the overall impact of husbandry practices on guinea pig wellbeing.
The event is open to veterinary professionals, animal welfare advocates, educators, and small pet owners. Tickets cost £10 with all proceeds going to support guinea welfare. For more information and to register, visit: guineapigalliance.com/gpwf.
