12-Year-Old Girl Saves Her Guinea Pig from a Snake

Australia is famous for its dangerous wildlife, and the outback can be a tough place for small animals. Recently, a brave 12-year-old girl named Rosie Wightman saved her pet guinea pig, MaxiBon, from what could have been a tragic end.
The dramatic rescue was captured on the family's security camera, showcasing Rosie's quick thinking and fearless actions.
How It All Happened
Rosie shared her story with news outlets after the incident. She explained to 7 News Australia that she had stepped outside after her father discussed the family's chore list. Noticing it was getting dark, she thought about potential predators that might harm her guinea pigs.
Her instincts proved correct. MaxiBon was hiding in a bush when Rosie tried to grab him, but he ran away. Suddenly, MaxiBon began screaming—he was trapped under a shovel with a snake wrapping around his neck.
The Rescue
Without hesitation, Rosie grabbed the snake and swung it around to free MaxiBon. “I realized swinging the snake was smart because it couldn't tighten around his neck,” Rosie said. While swinging, the snake released MaxiBon but quickly latched onto his leg.
Hearing Rosie's screams, her parents rushed outside. Her father hit the snake's head on the ground, forcing it to release MaxiBon. The guinea pig ran back into the bushes while Rosie's dad threw the snake across the yard.
The Viral Moment
The security footage has since gone viral after being shared online by Rosie's uncle, Kip Wightman, a Brisbane radio host. “It was unbelievable,” said Rosie's mother Grace. “For an hour after, we thought no one would believe us until we remembered the cameras.”
“We're so grateful you're fine,” Grace said to Rosie afterward. “But next time, step away—we'll buy you two more guinea pigs!”

Aftermath
Later, Rosie shared in an interview with Sunrise that although her parents advised against such actions in the future, she felt she had to act. “I would've regretted not doing anything for the rest of my life,” she said.
Thankfully, both Rosie and MaxiBon are fine. Rosie's voice remains hoarse from screaming, and MaxiBon is recovering from minor scratches.
Conclusion
This heartwarming story highlights Rosie's bravery and love for her pet. While her actions were risky, they saved MaxiBon’s life and captured a moment that will be remembered by thousands.
Sunday's incident made headlines this week after Rosie's uncle, an Australian radio host, posted the video on his Instagram page.
Rosie's mother, Grace, said that in the aftermath of the event, they focused on “consoling Rosie and having a family moment,” and wondered if anyone would believe what had just happened — until they realized their security camera would have captured the whole incident.
It was “wild” to hear a “bloodcurdling scream” from Rosie and see her “whizzing around with a … snake attached to her guinea pig,” Grace added. All the family members were already in their pajamas, getting ready for the week ahead, she added, when the snake sprung.







