Move over cats and dogs—there’s a fuzzy crew in Shearwater that’s stealing hearts and munching veggies at record speed. Meet the ultimate girl gang of guinea pigs: Marzipan, Mandarin, Morel, Moonpie, Mushroom, Marmalade, Meringue, May, Maddie, Poppy, Sally, and Cheesecake. Yes, twelve guinea pigs—all girls, all adored, and each with a name as unique as her personality.

Guinea pigs have been a lifelong passion for their devoted owner, who has not only welcomed these delightful creatures into her home but has also become a passionate advocate for their health and welfare. Over the years, she’s rescued guinea pigs locally and from as far away as Utah, where two of the girls were found abandoned in a garage. Now, they’re living their best lives—groomed, loved, and snuggled—in the heart of Shearwater.

The name game started with a simple, sweet theme: foods that start with the letter “M.” From Moonpie to Mushroom, the tradition stuck… mostly. Some of the girls came with names too cute to change, like Poppy and Cheesecake, and they fit right into the mix.

These aren’t your average pet-store piggies, either. Many of the girls are long-haired breeds with thick, curly locks that require regular grooming and haircuts. But don’t let the beauty routine fool you—they’re also incredibly smart. Several of them know how to spin in a circle, jump into a hand, and even give kisses on command!

When it comes to treats, this herd is all about the greens. Veggies are the clear favorite, and they especially love foraging in their own backyard for fresh grass and banana leaves. Their favorite hangout spot? The family lawn—perfect for sunbathing, grazing, and the occasional impromptu photo shoot.

One especially sweet memory came when the family’s youngest member, now almost two, met the guinea pigs for the first time. At just four months old, he was laid on the floor with lettuce on his belly, surrounded by gentle little piggies eager for a snack and a snuggle. The photos from that day are priceless!

Though the guinea pigs don’t travel often, a few have dipped their paws in the sand on special beach outings, and they love a good trip to the local feed store or Tractor Supply Co. But if they could choose their dream adventure? A trip to Peru to explore their ancestral roots—just don’t tell them about the culinary customs over there!

Whether they’re giving kisses, munching lettuce, or simply enjoying the Shearwater sunshine, these twelve little ladies are more than pets—they’re part of the family, and proof that sometimes the best things really do come in small, squeaky packages.