Guinea pigs are a type of cavy that originated in the Andes. They were first raised for food until they used them for pets instead.They are a species of rodent. They are closely related to the patagonian cavy. They look like minature capybaras.
Patagonian Cavy
Some guinea pig rescues put guinea pigs up for adoption. These guinea pigs did not have good homes or were being treated wrong. I adopted my guiea pigs from Los Angeles Guinea Pig Rescue (LAGPR).