Six baby hamsters are recovering in RSPCA care in Nantwich after they were found dumped in a box on a bench in Crewe.
Council workers found the Syrian hamsters in the discarded box in Queens Park on Tuesday (February 12), and took them to the RSPCA’s Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre on London Road.
The abandonment has prompted the RSPCA to urge people to think twice before getting pets – and to do thorough research before committing to them.
Lee Stewart, manager at Stapeley Grange, said: “They are lovely little creatures and it is very sad that they have been dumped in this way.
“Whoever did this gave no thought to their welfare whatsoever.
“Sadly, the RSPCA sees small pets like hamsters regularly abandoned and left to fend for themselves.
“There is never an excuse to abandon an animal in this way and there is always help available from the RSPCA and other animal charities for those who feel they are no longer coping with their pets.
“Hamsters can often be seen as a great first pet for children, however, the excitement can sometimes fade and that is when we can see them thrown out.
“We urge people to think carefully before taking on a pet and to do your research on their needs.
“Owning and caring for hamsters can be great fun and very rewarding, but are still a responsibility.
“It’s terrible to think that someone thought it would be OK to just dump these animals like this and then offering them to passers-by as free to take – they could have fallen into the completely wrong hands.”
The hamsters will now be rehomed via an RSPCA branch.
For more information about looking after hamsters, visit the RSPCA’s website.
Anyone who would like to support the vital work of Stapeley Grange can now donate online at www.justgiving.com/campaigns/charity/rspcahq/stapeleygrange
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