The guinea pig was first documented in the Andes Mountains 3,000 ago, and they are still primarily used for food there. The name is of unknown origin; perhaps traders in the 1500s passed by the island of Guinea on their way to Europe, and the animals had some pig-like characteristics.

Peruvian populations then, and now, however, would never guess there would be organizations in the United States dedicated to rescuing them. But that is exactly what Crystal Humphrey is doing.

She started Rescuedguineapigs.com in September, and since then has adopted out 30 guinea pigs to families in the area desiring one for a pet. Humphrey says that in the last nine months, it has become more than a rescue organization — it is a passion.

“I’m having a blast with them,” she said. “Sometimes I’ll get one out and it’ll follow me around like a puppy dog.”

Humphrey’s passion is a unique one. She said she had heard of another guinea pig rescue group in Indianapolis, but they are rare. The Humane Society, PetSmart stores and many other stores and agencies know who she is, and are always ready to bring her any guinea pigs that get dropped off.

It all started with a friend. She was a housekeeper, Humphrey said, and took in a guinea pig a customer was keeping in their garage.

Her friend ultimately didn’t have the time to care for it, and Humphrey agreed to take it in as a pet. And then she fell in love with an animal that gets a lot less attention for its pet qualities than a cat or a dog.

Guinea pigs are surprisingly intelligent, excellent swimmers and can even be litter-box trained. And Humphrey should know, she has housed more than 50 since September.