When picking up a guinea pig, what is important to do with your hands?

When picking up a guinea pig, it is crucial to block it from running with one hand to ensure its safety and reduce stress. Guinea pigs are prey animals and can easily become frightened, which may lead them to attempt to escape when they feel threatened. By using one hand to gently prevent the guinea pig from running away, you create a safe environment for the animal, allowing you to approach it calmly and securely.

This technique helps to keep both the guinea pig and the handler safe during the handling process. It sets the foundation for a more stable grasp once the animal is picked up. The other choices suggest methods that could potentially harm the guinea pig or lead to its escape, which emphasizes the importance of using a gentle and controlled approach when handling these small animals.