Distressing Discovery of Over 400 Guinea Pigs in South Los Angeles
A group of animal rescue volunteers recently uncovered a shocking situation involving more than 400 guinea pigs living in unsanitary and overcrowded conditions at a home in South Los Angeles. The discovery has sparked an urgent call for public assistance, with the rescuers asking individuals to foster or adopt some of the animals or to make donations that will support medical care and supplies.
The Southern California Guinea Pig Rescue organization reported that on Thursday evening, volunteers encountered what they described as a “distressing and alarming” scene. Some of the guinea pigs had already died, while others were suffering from health issues such as ringworm and open wounds. Among the animals were pregnant females and newborns, yet they lacked access to sufficient water and proper food.
According to the group’s press release, the tenant had reportedly been unable to feed the large number of guinea pigs. The initial goal of the rescue team was to provide food, assess potential health concerns, and begin searching for overflow rescues and responsible homes. However, a spokesperson for the group could not be reached for further comments.
The guinea pigs, which typically require grass hay, vegetables, and pellets, were found living off of corn husks. A video shared on YouTube showed the animals scurrying around the residence, with some hiding in beer boxes or crowded into cages without food. This grim footage highlights the dire conditions the animals faced.
The rescue group learned about the situation through an email from a Los Angeles Animal Services coordinator, who mentioned that the tenant had hoarded 200 guinea pigs at her home and was facing eviction if she did not relocate them by Saturday. However, it became clear that the actual number of guinea pigs far exceeded the initial estimate.
Despite this, the group expressed concern after being informed that a Los Angeles Animal Services lieutenant visited the property and concluded that the guinea pigs were healthy and had adequate shelter, food, and water. A representative from Los Angeles Animal Services was unavailable for comment.
“We urge City officials and the animal welfare community to fully investigate this case and improve systemic response protocols. Shelter officials must be accountable if anything happens to these animals,” the press release stated.
In collaboration with other rescue organizations such as Rescue Garden, Wee Companions, and Vegas Friends of Guinea Pigs Rescue, the Southern California Guinea Pig Rescue team managed to remove 33 guinea pigs. They prioritized those that were pregnant, newborns, or suffering from health conditions, focusing on the most vulnerable animals.
For those interested in helping, the Southern California Guinea Pig Rescue can be contacted via email at [email protected] or through their website. Additional contact information for other animal rescue groups is also included in the press release.
