A couple who care for 130 guinea pigs are facing the heartbreaking possibility of having to rehome their beloved pets after losing their main source of income on Facebook. Sophie Mason, 34, and her husband Mark run the popular Facebook page Masons’ Cavies, which has 1.1 million followers who help fund the care of the animals.
The couple had been using advertising and premium live-streams to support their guinea pigs, but their page was suddenly demonetised without warning. This has left them unable to raise the funds needed to care for their large herd of guinea pigs.
Despite their efforts to contact Facebook and rectify the situation, the reason for the ban remains unknown. This is not the first time the couple has faced issues with Facebook, as a similar incident occurred in 2021 when the platform mistakenly flagged the word ‘pig’ as a hate crime.
Caring for 130 guinea pigs is no small feat, with costs ranging from housing and heating to food and medical bills. The couple also takes in rescued animals and works to find them loving homes.
Despite the challenges they are facing, Sophie and Mark Mason have inspired others to improve the care of their own guinea pigs. They have received messages from followers who have upgraded their pets’ living conditions and are providing better care as a result of the couple’s influence.
The future of Masons’ Cavies and their 130 guinea pigs remains uncertain, but one thing is clear – the love and dedication Sophie and Mark have for their pets is unwavering, and their impact on the guinea pig community is undeniable.
