About Running Out of Hay
Running Out of Hay is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit guinea pig rescue and sanctuary based in San Mateo County, California.
We provide rescue, foster, adoption, and lifelong sanctuary care, with a particular focus on senior, special-needs, hospice, and medically complex guinea pigs.
Our goal is to ensure that every animal in our care receives appropriate medical attention, companionship, and a safe home, whether that means placement with an adoptive family or permanent residence in our sanctuary.
How It All Began
Our Story
Running Out of Hay began long before it became an official nonprofit.
Our founder, Clare Sugarman, began fostering rabbits and guinea pigs in 2018. Over the following years, she fostered more than 60 animals, gaining hands-on experience with animal husbandry, behavior, bonding, grooming, and medical care.
Along the way, she found herself especially drawn to the animals who were often overlooked: seniors, guinea pigs with chronic medical conditions, and those whose needs made traditional adoption more difficult.
What began as a personal commitment to helping animals gradually grew into something bigger.
In May 2026, Running Out of Hay officially incorporated as a California nonprofit, later receiving federal recognition as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
The Heart Behind Our Mission
Ms. Tiggy's Legacy
Ms. Tiggy was a senior guinea pig who arrived at a Bay Area animal shelter underweight and alone.
She suffered from recurring urinary stones and arthritis, and despite her need for a loving home, she attracted no adoption interest. After her third urinary stone, euthanasia was being considered.
Clare adopted Ms. Tiggy with a simple goal: to give her a comfortable, loving home for however long she had left.
With more space, guinea pig companionship, good food, and enrichment, Ms. Tiggy became more active and playful and even regained weight.
Tragically, just two weeks later, her health declined rapidly. She was humanely euthanized, and a necropsy revealed aggressive splenic cancer.
Although her time was short, her final weeks were filled with the comfort and companionship she deserved.
Ms. Tiggy became our first sanctuary guinea pig and a lasting reminder of why Running Out of Hay exists.
A Home for Life
Meet Our Sanctuary Residents
Not every guinea pig who comes to Running Out of Hay is looking for an adoptive home.
Some arrive with chronic illnesses, significant disabilities, advanced age, or other needs that make lifelong sanctuary care the most appropriate option.
Our permanent residents receive individualized care, including medical treatment, appropriate housing, companionship, enrichment, and ongoing monitoring.
Each has a unique personality and story, and we love sharing them with the people who make their care possible. You can also make a donation in honor of a particular sanctuary resident.
Beyond the Sanctuary
More Than a Rescue
Our commitment extends beyond the guinea pigs living in our sanctuary. We also help animals remain healthy, happy, and loved in their existing homes whenever possible.
Rescue & Adoption
Helping homeless guinea pigs find loving families through rescue, fostering, adoption, and foster-to-adopt placements.
Community Support
Providing surrender assistance, care advice, bonding support, and low-cost grooming and health checks.
Education & Outreach
Sharing knowledge and resources to help guinea pigs and their caregivers thrive, including community and school outreach.
The People Behind the Mission
Our Leadership
Running Out of Hay is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors committed to responsible stewardship, compassionate animal welfare, and the organization's long-term sustainability.
Clare Sugarman
Founder & President
Liliana Francisco
Secretary
Molly Volkman
Treasurer
California Public Benefit Nonprofit Corporation
Federally Recognized 501(c)(3) Charitable Organization
EIN: 42-2849568
Help Make the Next Chapter Possible
Be Part of Their Story
Every guinea pig who comes through our doors has a story. With the support of our community, we can help make the next chapter a better one.
Whether you adopt, foster, volunteer, donate, or simply share our mission, you help make this work possible.