A petition calling for guinea pigs not to be eaten in Wales has gathered nearly 3,500 signatures after Pembrokeshire council granted a couple permission to breed the small mammals for meat. The change.org petition, launched by Adam Shaw of campaign group Herbivore Club, argues that guinea pigs are typically kept as pets and should not be approved as a meat source under a planning scheme.
Council Approves Breeding for Meat
In June 2026, Pembrokeshire council approved a One Planet Development scheme for Dave and Mayu Phillips at their property Walnut Grove, near Jeffreyston. The plan allows them to breed guinea pigs, rabbits, and a flock of 20 pigeons for meat, as part of a sustainable lifestyle that also includes producing honey, walnuts, fruits, and vegetables.
The petition states: “Across Wales and the rest of the UK, guinea pigs are cared for, named, loved and grieved when they die. They should not be approved as a meat source under a planning scheme.” It calls on the council to reject the use of guinea pigs in the proposal immediately and urges the Welsh Government to ban the breeding, killing, sale, and consumption of guinea pigs for food in Wales.
Public Outcry and Council Response
Comments on the petition describe the practice of eating guinea pigs as “barbaric,” reflecting the strong opposition from pet owners and animal welfare advocates. A Pembrokeshire County Council spokesperson said: “As with all petitions, Pembrokeshire County Council will respond as set out in the Council’s Petitions Scheme, dependent on the number of signatures received. It would not be appropriate to comment further while the petition remains open.”
The controversy highlights the cultural divide over which animals are considered food versus companions, with guinea pigs traditionally seen as pets in the UK but consumed in some other parts of the world.
