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Spate of animals dumped in Lanarkshire
The Scottish SPCA is appealing for information after seven rabbits and guinea pigs were callously dumped in various locations across Lanarkshire in the space of only three days.
The defenceless animals were found abandoned in four separate incidents across the region and we are keen to find those responsible.
All the unwanted animals are now being cared for at our Lanarkshire Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Hamilton.
Deputy Assistant Manager Gillian Boyle said, "The first incident happened on Saturday when two rabbits were dumped in a box in our reception area. We noticed a lady arrive with a box, but she simply put it down on the floor, turned around and walked out before getting into a waiting taxi.
"We then received two guinea pigs that had been rescued by one of our ambulance drivers after they were found dumped on a drying green at a block of flats in Airdrie.
"On Monday we rescued another two guinea pigs after they were abandoned by a roadside in Kilsyth. They were left in a box with the words "help us" written on the side.
"Then on Tuesday morning a rabbit came into our care after being found dumped in a budgie cage on William Street in Coatbridge on Monday night.
"It's not only shocking but shameful that a minority of pet owners think it is acceptable to throw away their animals like rubbish.
"People give all sorts of reasons for doing this, from their children growing tired of their pets to being unable to cope with the demands of caring for an animal.
"But once you have taken on a pet it is your responsibility to care for that animal, which depends entirely on you for its wellbeing. It is also your responsibility to seek out a permanent, suitable home for your pet if you are no longer in a position to care for it yourself.
"There is no excuse for abandoning an animal, in fact, it is an offence and something we take very seriously."
Gillian added, "We are now looking for genuine, loving homes for all the unwanted animals that have come into us in the past few days. They have arrived in our care through no fault of their own and we'd love to find them good, permanent homes as soon as possible."
The charity is warning that anyone found guilty of abandoning an animal can expect to be banned from keeping animals for a fixed period or life.
Anyone with information relating to dumped bunnies and guinea pigs or anyone interested in rehoming an animal should contact our Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.