The RSPCA is investigating after three guinea pigs were dumped in a cardboard box with a note asking for them to be cared for.
The three male guinea pigs, who are all about a year old, were found in a taped-up box with a note which read: ‘RSPCA please can you find us a new home, our mummy is poorly and can’t look after us anymore.’
The small animals were found outside a charity shop in the High Street, Stonehouse, Gloucestershire on Friday (8 March) at 4pm. They were left with bedding, food and water and a few holes poked in the box.
RSPCA Animal Collection Officer (ACO), Richard Carr, who is now investigating, said: “These poor guinea pigs had been dumped on a busy high street on Friday afternoon. They were found with food and water, but the guinea pigs were very stressed and sitting in their own mess. One of the guinea pigs also has hair loss which could be a result of parasites.
“I took the three boys to the vets where they were checked over and stayed the night before being picked up the next morning. Thanks to the RSPCA Worcester branch, who are now caring for these three boys, they are doing well and becoming quite popular with staff.
“These guinea pigs were lucky to be found by a member of the public who contacted us. We do understand that people’s circumstances can change which might mean they can no longer look after animals, but there is no excuse to abandon an animal like this. If anyone has any further information, contact the inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.”
The trio have been named Jon, Alan and Richard and have already found their forever home.
Guinea pigs are active and sociable animals and are often seen as an easy pet or a typical child’s first pet but it should always be an adult who takes the responsibility of caring for the pet and making sure they are properly handled and cared for.
For more information you can visit www.rspca.org.uk.
