Keki’s Guinea Pig Rescue in Black Dam calling for help

Keki’s Guinea Pig Rescue, based at Lindsey Keki's home in Black Dam, has been operating at full capacity ever since it was started in March this year.

As previously reported, the mother-of-five was forced to give up work as a legal secretary for a conveyancing firm after suffering from health problems including fibromyalgia and blood clots in her lungs.

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Lindsey initially adopted two guinea pigs to help with her mental health during a challenging time in her life, before adopting three more from someone in Bramley. This was when Lindsey saw the struggles facing guinea pig rescue centres in the local area.

Lindsey said: "It was evident that the existing centres were already at capacity and a need for more support locally, so me and my husband Simon discussed creating a rescue."

Simon converted the garden to house the guinea pigs, including extending the garden shed and hatches. But just four months after opening, Lindsey and her volunteers are appealing for help from members of the public to ensure they can continue running the centre. The centre currently has over 20 guinea pigs.

Lindsey said: "It's really challenging, particularly in these expensive times we are living in. We are having to fund a lot of the costs associated with keeping guinea pigs ourselves. There is a constant need for food for the guinea pigs, fresh hay and shavings each week, and electricity to keep the shed and hatches warm for the guinea pigs.

"All these costs, unfortunately, plus vet bills, add up and make running the centre quite expensive, and without a bit of help, we will struggle to continue running the centre. Closing the centre really would be a last resort for us."

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Lindsey said they had a number of upcoming events planned, including afternoon tea at the rescue on September 30, with the aim of raising money and awareness of the centre.

Lindsey continued: "We appreciate it's difficult but any help anyone can give would be massively appreciated. Anyone who could contribute with straw, some vegetables or similar would be great, and equally, we are always on the lookout for any volunteers who would like to get involved.

Lindsey has over 20 Guinea Pigs at the centre (Image: Mark Paine, Canva)

"The guinea pigs are up for adoption too and make the most fantastic pets, and we would love to be able to continue getting them rehomed."

More information on Keki’s Guinea Pig Rescue can be found at kekisguineapigrescue.com, or on Facebook at facebook.com/profile.php. Donations can be made at gofundme.com/f/help-us-to-raise-much-needed-funds-for-our-rescue or by signing up at easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/kgpr.