Meet Minerva, the rescue's official mascot.

Born on February 1, 2005, Minerva and her mother and siblings came from a home that had too many guinea pigs. Her former owner had 20 guinea pigs and was forced to turn them into the Animal Refuge League shelter in Westbrook, Maine. Because the shelter was already filled to capacity, Minerva and 14 of the other guinea pigs came to The Critter Connection because they were in danger of being put to sleep.

Minerva was just two weeks old when she arrived and was a very scared little girl. With patience and lots of TLC, Minerva learned to trust humans and has become an extremely affectionate and personable guinea pig.

Unfortunately, Minerva has a condition called micropthalmia, a genetic defect due to inbreeding. The condition left Minerva blind. Because we do not know what other problems she may incur throughout her life, Minerva will stay with us where she will be safe and protected.

And finally ... good news as of September 2005 ... Minerva has accepted roommates! Life is good!