Rescue centre seeks homes for almost 100 guinea pigs
Local people donated bedding and food to help look after the guinea pigs.
An animal rescue centre in Kent is looking to find new owners for almost 100 guinea pigs in its care.
The RSPCA’s Leybourne Animal Centre took in 63 guinea pigs in November last year after they were removed from a farm in the East Midlands. Many of the animals were pregnant and the total number in the group has since risen to 93.
Although the charity planned to rehome them quickly, efforts to find them new owners had to be delayed after they were found to have a contagious ringworm infection. The guinea pigs were quarantined and nursed by staff wearing PPE.
Darren Parrish, manager of the centre, said: “They were medicated daily and we followed a strict cleaning regime which has meant throwing everything away and stripping out all their bedding.
“But we had had a huge response from the local community in Kent, who have helped us make life comfortable for the guinea pigs. There were generous donations of hay and newspapers for bedding as well as feed and veg. It’s amazing what we can achieve together for animal welfare.”
Following the guinea pigs being given a clean bill of health, the rescue centre has started actively looking to find new homes for them. They are prioritising applications from people who want to adopt mixed male and female pairs and prospective owners will need to show that they can provide suitable accommodation.
Mr Parrish added: “Rehoming is such an important part of our work to create a better world for every animal.
“The RSPCA turns 200 years old this year - and finding all these guinea pigs loving new homes would be an amazing way to celebrate.”
Images © RSPCA
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
