[wickedrodent]

I do find it very great that you are coming here for advice before getting your new guinea pigs. That is probably the biggest step you can do. However, you really really need to talk to your parents about the responsibility before you try and adopt. You will need to have your parents 100% support. Guinea pigs are not an inexpensive or easy starter pet.

As a minor you are going to have to rely on your parents for the financial part of the animal. If you get an allowance, that will help. Still, it will not be enough to buy everything they will need. If your parents are not willing to buy the proper cage materials, food, bedding, and pay for vet bills (which may be very expensive).. Please do not get a guinea pig. Waiting a few years (until you have a job of your own) may seem like a lot now, but it will be worth it (for you an the guinea pigs) in the end.

Start up costs:
-1 pack of grids ($15)
-1 sheet of coroplast (approx. $25)
-Oxbow food, hay, and the shipping (around $50)
-Water Bottles ($15)
-Food Dishes ($5)
-Hay rack/litterbox/toys ($20+)
-Towels ($10)
-Fleece ($10)
-Carefresh ($20)
-Veggies ($10+)
-Scale ($20)
-Nail Clippers ($10)
-Guinea pig adoption fee (approx. $50 for two [depending on the rescue])

Weekly expenses:
-Veggies ($10)

Every two (or so) months:
-Pellets (approx. $25+)

Every 6 months (or so) months:
-Hay (approx. $25+)

Should always have on hand:
-Vet Fund ($200+++)

That is a total of $460 worth of start up costs at the very least.

+ At least $10+ every week.

+ Another $25+ every two months.

+Another $25+ every six months.

That is the very least. Remember, guinea pigs can become ill very suddenly and need immediate vet attention out of the blue on the same day. You could be looking at $1000+ just for tests.

It may seem like I am being very blunt and discouraging, but you need to know the facts. Make absolutely sure your parents are ready for a financial responsibility this big. Also, make sure you are willing to spend your weekends cleaning cages, as well as the daily duties. Pets are nothing to take on lightly. The care guinea pigs require almost relates to the care of a young child. You may think you are ready, but in reality, there is a LOT more you can learn.