Officials speak after 42 guinea pigs found abandoned in Exeter

EXETER, R.I. (WLNE) –A $500 reward is being offered by the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals for any information about those responsible for abandoning 42 guinea pigs in the Browning Mill Pond hiking area of Exeter last week.

Wayne Kezirian, president at the RISPCA, said, “Over the weekend, two hikers in Exeter ran across a collection of guinea pigs in the woods. Fortunately these two hikers had small animal experience and they contacted the local police. With the assistance of a Richmond police officer, they were able to round up 42 guinea pigs in the woods and they put them into totes.”

The guinea pigs are currently being treated at several local animal shelters including the RISPCA.

One of the guinea pigs had to be euthanized for severe wounds and malnourishment.

Jacklyn Vieira, an animal caretaker at the RISCPA, told ABC 6 News, “There is always a better option than just leaving them because there are shelters all around.”

“Take them to somewhere trusted, don’t just leave them, because even if you walk into a shelter, we will do what we can to take care of them, we will find resources for you. There is always a better option, we don’t judge. It is alright if you cannot take care of them. Just don’t leave them,” Vieira continued.

The RISPCA said the investigation into who abandoned the guinea pigs is ongoing and they’re working with local law enforcement to bring them to justice.