New homes needed after 19 guinea pigs found dumped in cardboard boxes

Homes are being sought for two female guinea pigs who were among 19 animals found abandoned in cardboard boxes.

Gin, left, and Tonic, right, were abandoned in cardboard boxes. Photo: RSPCA

Gin and Tonic have been cared for by the RSPCA in Walsall since they were found dumped at the end of a driveway along with 17 other guinea pigs in October.

It's believed that adult females Gin and Tonic are the mothers of the babies who were found with them and were from a home overrun with guinea pigs.

Gin and Tonic are believed to be 12-18 months old. Photo: RSPCA

Now the RSPCA has appealed for members of the public to provide a new home for Gin and Tonic, who are believed to be 12-18 months old, and for Faith and Ivy, the only two of the abandoned babies yet to be rehomed.

Faith and Ivy were three weeks old when they were found and are believed to be sisters.

Faith and Ivy also need a new home. Photo: RSPCA

Vicky Harrison, trustee at RSPCA Walsall, said: "Poor Gin and Tonic were abandoned in a cardboard box on a driveway with 17 other guinea pigs which we believe had come from a home overrun with guinea pigs.

"Sadly, we do see circumstances where breeding has become out of control which means it's likely that each pet is not getting the attention they need or having their needs met.

"We would always encourage anyone who is struggling to cope with their pets to ask ourselves or other charities for help rather than abandoning their animals.

Gin and Tonic were found with 17 guinea pigs believed to be their children. Photo: RSPCA

"Now these two girls are looking to find their forever home together."

The pets could live with other guinea pigs or a neutered male so long as they are happy to let Gin be the boss, the RSPCA said, adding that the an indoor home is needed with lots of space and enrichment to keep them occupied.

Gin is described as a confident black and tan crested guinea pig who is the boss of the group, while Tonic is a black, white and tan crested guinea pig who follows her sister around and takes care of the younger animals.

Males Peanut and Pecan were removed from a house where there were more than 100 guinea pigs. Photo: RSPCA

Meanwhile RSCPA Walsall is also looking for new homes for baby male guinea pigs Peanut and Peacan who were born two weeks before Christmas and were removed from a house along with more than 100 other guinea pigs.

Anyone interested in giving any of the guinea pigs a home can call RSPCA Walsall on 0845 2723570 or email enquiries@rspca-walsall.org.uk.