The ideal emergency travel carrier for a guinea pig is either a small airline-style carrier made from plastic with a metal door, or a plastic carrier designed specifically for small animals. Both of these carriers are secure yet offer plenty of ventilation. Make sure the carrier is big enough for the guinea pig to turn around comfortably.
When transporting your guinea pig to the vet or for any other reason, observe your small pet for signs of stress. Provide shredded paper towels in the carrier so the guinea pig can hide underneath, and consider placing a towel over the carrier to help the guinea pig feel more secure.
Don’t leave a guinea pig in the car on a warm day, even with the windows open since the temperature inside the car can reach an unsafe level quickly (guinea pigs are particularly prone to heatstroke). Remember to never open the cage door once you leave your home or the vet’s office because a guinea pig could easily escape.
If you are going on vacation and plan to leave your guinea pig behind, find a trusted friend, relative or professional pet sitter to care for your small pet in your absence. Make certain the person knows how to care for a guinea pig, and has taken the time to meet your small pet.
Write down detailed care instructions for the pet sitter, and provide emergency numbers for your veterinarian and emergency contacts. Leave a number where you can be reached as well, and provide extra food in case something happens and your return is delayed.
You may also want to consider boarding your guinea pig while you are away. Exotics veterinarians sometimes offer boarding services for small pets.