More than 500 guinea pigs were rescued from a Colorado-based breeder in the largest single-owner surrender case this Fort Collins-based rescue has encountered, according to a Monday Facebook post by Cavies and Canines Animal Rescue.
According to the guinea pig rescue, which is licensed under the Colorado Department of Agriculture’s Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act, the breeder was unable to properly care for the animals, who were kept in overcrowded plastic containers without necessities like food, hay and water.
Many of the guinea pigs are pregnant and suffering from serious health issues, including ringworm and upper respiratory disease.
“We are facing thousands upon thousands of dollars in vet bills already” Cavies and Canines, said in a Monday post. “We rescued 64 piggies today and these 10 medical cases came back with me. There are probably hundreds left.
“Several guinea pigs who we felt were euthanasia cases on Sunday are showing signs of improvement. Some are now walking, drinking on their own, and one even wheeked,” the rescue said.
Cavies and Canines says that while severe cases will remain in Colorado, the rescue is focused on partnering with other organizations who are able to care for a larger capacity of animals. This includes Piggies Paradise, a guinea pig rescue and sanctuary in southwest Iowa.
The rescue’s biggest need is people willing to transport guinea pigs from the Denver area to surrounding states on Wednesday and Thursday, according to a Tuesday afternoon update. Those wanting to assist with rescue efforts can sign up to foster, adopt, volunteer, donate, fundraise and transport through this link.
“There are no words we can use right now to convey the deep sense of appreciation we have for the growing community who has rallied behind this case,” the rescue posted. “We could not have facilitated this without you.”
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