Guinea pigs rescued from Norwich layby

Two abandoned guinea pigs have been saved after being dumped in their hutch in a layby on Plumstead Road.

Eagle-eyed police officers helped to save the lives of the two animals when travelling down the Norwich road just after lunchtime on Monday this week, when they spotted the hutch upside down.

When the officers went over to investigate they discovered two male guinea pigs inside. They managed to rescue the pair, which are now being cared for by fosterers.

The RSPCA is now appealing for information about the bizarre incident. Inspector Carrie O'Riordan, said: 'I have been called to deal with all kinds of incidents involving animals being abandoned. Some have been dumped while still inside their cages, but I have never had to deal with a pet being abandoned in their wooden hutch.

'It really is quite surprising that someone would dump such a large hutch and the guinea pigs, they would have needed a large vehicle to transport it.

'It was really lucky the guineas were found when they were, because had they been left to fend for themselves overnight they probably wouldn't have survived.'

Now the RSPCA are trying to track down the owner of the small animals. Someone found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal can face a maximum six-month prison sentence, and a �20,000 fine.

Ms O'Riordan added: 'Both guinea pigs are adults, and they are really friendly and are used to being handled so they have obviously been kept as pets.

'We are keen to hear from anyone who recognises the description of the guineas or the hutch, or who may have seen anyone acting suspiciously in the area.'

Anyone with information is urged to contact the RSPCA cruelty line on 0300 1234 999.

Have you got a story for the Evening News? Contact reporter David Freezer on 01603 772418 or on email at david.freezer@archant.co.uk