These 'cutest' abandoned guinea pigs are the latest victims of the cost of living crisis

These 'cutest ever' abandoned guinea pigs are the latest victims of the cost of living crisis
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These 'cutest ever' abandoned guinea pigs are the latest victims of the cost of living crisis
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According to the RSPCA, the number of abandoned guinea pigs nearly doubled this year. These little furries are often misunderstood and seen as a lesser commitment than cats and dogs, while they are actually adorable and make incredibly rewarding pets.

Many pet owners don't seem to realise that a guinea pig is the same serious commitment as a cat or a dog. Sadly, more and more of them are heartlessly dumped across the UK, leaving rescue centresoverwhelmed. The critical situation is attributed to the cost of living crisis where people have to choose between feeding themselves or their animals.

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Abandoned little furries

In August this year, the RSPCA appealed for information about two guinea pigs who were abandoned in West Yorkshire, England. A local business worker noticed a red shoebox in the woods and was surprised to find a furry pet inside, before spotting a second one among the grass and leaves.

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An animal inspector took the animals to the local RSPCA branch, where they were treated for lice. Nicknamed Brenda and Myrtle by the staff, they're ready to be rehomed.

Lola, Willow and Ruby were also abandoned by their owner who moved and couldn’t take them with them. The three guinea pigs were heartbroken to lose their family and livelihood. Despite being ‘very nervous’, these ‘super sweet’ can't wait for their new forever family.

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Misunderstood animals

According to RSPCA companion animal expert Dr Jane Tyson, guinea pigs are 'misunderstood animals'. They are often bought for children who can quickly lose interest in them. But these little creatures have very complex needs and a relatively long life span, just like cats and dogs.

Timid looking, they are social animals and require plenty of space to roam around in. They make very rewarding pets for people who understand they are a responsibility and a commitment.

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Guinea Pig Besties!

"I am not crying, you're crying!" 👇 🐹🐹 Guide guinea pig, yup, you read that right! Yuki has taken the role of guide-guinea to her blind bestie Ami and we honestly can't stop shedding happy tears over how adorable these two are. Ami is always the first to emerge when she hears treats but waits for Yuki to seek them out so she can follow her lead 🥺💖 https://bit.ly/3iTjPXM

Posted by RSPCA (England & Wales) on Sunday, January 31, 2021

Devastating effects of the cost of living crisis

The RSPCA has revealed the number of guinea pigs coming into its care between January and August has risen by 90% in the last two years. The heartbreaking statistics were released as part of Guinea Pig Awareness Week to inform people of the suffering faced by hundreds of small furries.

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🐹📈 The number of guinea pigs coming into our care (Jan-Aug), has risen by 90% in the last two years! This year we've...

Posted by RSPCA (England & Wales) on Monday, September 26, 2022

The charity has already received hundreds of reports involving over 350 guinea pigs’ neglect and abandonment this year, while only being able to rehome 95 animals. As more and more of them are dumped due to the cost of living crisis, fewer and fewer get adopted for the exact same reason, leaving shelters overwhelmed.

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Dr Jane Tyson said she sympathises with people 'struggling at the moment' and urged to reach out for help.

She added:

Friends, family, local charities, and vet charities can all provide support but it's never the answer to just dump an animal or neglect one.

Head to RSPCA's website to learn more about the charity and support their vital animal welfare and rescue work.

Sources used:

- The RSPCA: 'Cost of living crisis blamed for the rise in guinea pigs coming into the RSPCA'

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