When a couple from Chicago, Illinois set out for a hike, they expected it to be just another routine trip into nature, never imagining the surprises that awaited them. However, amidst the beautiful greenery, they heard rustling nearby. Curiosity led them closer, where they spotted a peculiar white dot in the foliage. Initially unsure, they quickly identified it as an animal, yet it was unclear which one.
An Absolute Surprise
With a blend of caution and curiosity, Carolyn McCabe and her boyfriend, Conor Keeling, approached the white animal. Upon getting a clear view, they were shocked to discover it was a lost white guinea pig, and they were puzzled about how it ended up there. Despite the surprise, their instincts kicked in; they felt compelled to help this poor animal. “We immediately thought … ‘We have to do something about this,’” Carolyn recounted to The Dodo, adding that the hike abruptly became less significant with the newfound responsibility.
Initially believing the guinea pig had strayed from home, they went door-to-door seeking its owner. Unfortunately, no one stepped forward, leading them to suspect it had been abandoned. This realization prompted them to take action.
He Felt At Home
Displaying immense compassion, Carolyn and Conor decided they couldn’t leave the guinea pig behind. They brought him home, giving him a bath in a towel-lined bathtub to ensure he felt cozy. They diced fruits and veggies to help the little animal regain energy after his ordeal.
They named the guinea pig Quinn, after the park where they found him. After some rest and relaxation, Quinn began to feel at home, reveling in the attention. “When he first got here, he was a little bit scared,” Carolyn noted. “But then, he really opened up and loved all the fruits and veggies we gave him… He was just running around and having a blast.” Tragically, their fairy tale was short-lived as Quinn’s stay with them lasted only two weeks.
Heartbreaking Goodbye, But A Happy Ending
Ultimately, Carolyn discovered she was allergic to guinea pigs, necessitating a painful farewell to Quinn. Despite the heartbreak, Carolyn and Conor were determined to secure a bright future for Quinn.
They reached out to One Tail at a Time, a reputable animal rescue organization in Chicago. The organization swiftly found the perfect family for Quinn, who were enthusiastic guinea pig lovers looking to adopt one to ease the loss of their previous pet.
Though it was arduous for Carolyn and Conor to say goodbye, they found comfort in knowing that Quinn was going to a loving home. “This whole thing was so funny and sweet,” Carolyn reflected. “He’s in a good place. It was a happy ending for everybody.”
