Accepted Answer

I'm also going to give you my thoughts without seeing the photos. From your description, I suspect that Satain may have skin cancer, possibly a melanoma. Since you said he got used to the bandages before, the best solution may be to do that again. Put something lubricating on the sore - petroleum jelly (Vaseline), plain Neosporin ointment, or something with a similar texture. That will soothe the area and protect it from being rubbed by the bandage. I'd cover that with gauze, then wrap it in the Ace bandage type wrap. VetWrap is a good brand that isn't too heavy. It may be what you're using already. There are limited ways to bandage such a sore, and this may wel be the best solution. If Satain can adjust to that again, it may give him a little more time.

I wish I knew of a treatment you could try, either conventional or alternative, but it seems you have already tried almost everything. You've gone to great lengths to help Satain. A veterinary oncologist may be able to remove the sore, but an elderly guinea pig is a poor candidate for surgery due to the risks of anesthesia. Such treatment would also be expensive, and you'd probably ahve to travel to find an oncologist. However, if that's something you're interested in, let me know and I'll find a directory for you.

Otherwise, you'll just have to do your best to cover and bandage the sore. As long as Satain eats with gusto and plays with his friends, he still has some quality of life. You'll have to judge when the bad outweighs the good. I know that you've given him a good life.

Anna

Expert:	Anna
Pos. Feedback:	100.0 %
Accepts:
Answered:	10/15/2009

Pet Expert/Biologist

40 yrs.: herps, pocket pets, rabbits, poultry, dogs, horses. Biology degree. Volunteer vet assistant