49 guinea pigs found abandoned near Mass. mill
by: Sarah Doiron
DRACUT, Mass. (WPRI) — An investigation is underway after nearly 50 guinea pigs were found abandoned near a Dracut mill Monday afternoon.
Dracut Police Chief Peter Bartlett said animal control officers were called to the Beaver Brook Mill after someone reported finding several guinea pigs near a small trail in the woods.
Bartlett said the officers successfully captured 49 “lethargic” guinea pigs and brought them to the Lowell Humane Society for veterinary treatment. The guinea pigs won’t be available for adoption until each one is medically cleared, he added.
Colleen Morse, a Dracut animal control officer, described the situation as “a serious lapse in responsibility and compassion.”
“It was evident that the guinea pigs had been intentionally disposed of in a location where they had no means to fend for themselves or escape their dire situation,” Morse said. “Given the abundance of resources available for the care and rehoming of animals, such neglect and abandonment is unacceptable.”
Investigators are now looking for whoever abandoned the guinea pigs. Anyone with information is asked to call the Dracut Police Department at 978-957-2123.
The Lowell Humane Society is seeking donations to assist with the influx of guinea pigs. Those interested in contributing to their care can do so online.