RSPCA appeal after Peterborough dog walker discovers severely ill guinea pigs by Ferry Meadows

The kind-hearted member of the public was alerted to the mum, her two babies and another female (thought to be around one years old) by their dog and then collected them and took them to a nearby vet.

The four were checked over and found to have ringworm and were very dehydrated. The two babies are around six weeks old and male.

RSPCA animal collection officer Justin Disdale said: “We are extremely grateful to this kind-hearted dog walker who found these guinea pigs and did all she could to help them.

“She took them to a nearby vet for treatment which she paid for and now has the guinea pigs at her home where she plans to keep them.

“It is wonderful to hear of such kindness from an animal lover and we are glad that this has been a happy ending for these poor guinea pigs who may not have survived long on their own had they not been found.

“Anyone with information about who may have abandoned the guinea pigs should contact the RSPCA’s appeal line on 0300 123 8018 “

Unfortunately, the RSPCA is often called to collect pets that have been abandoned when their owners no longer want them or cannot keep them.

The animal welfare charity believes one of the major causes of guinea pigs being neglected is a misconception that they are easy to look after or that they can be a child’s first pet.

Guinea pigs may be small in size but they are still a big commitment and require lots of care and attention.

Donations to the RSPCA can be made by visiting www.rspca.org.uk/give or calling its donation line on 0300 123 8181.