WPRO News

Hikers found 42 guinea pigs abandoned Tuesday in woods in Exeter, and after one was euthanized, the rest have been taken into care by area animal shelters.

The Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is offering a $500 reward for information leading to the conviction of those responsible.

The SPCA said Friday that one of the guinea pigs was put down due to severe wounds and being severely malnourished, and that most of the others are in similar condition, showing severe neglect.

The hikers discovered the guinea pigs abandoned in the woods at the Browning Mill Pond Area off of Arcadia Road in Exeter. They enlisted help from the RI Wildlife Clinic and a Richmond Police officer, transported the animals to the Exeter Animal Shelter. Others were taken in for care by the SPCA, the Potter League for Animals and North Kingstown Animal Control.

The Rhode Island SPCA is offering a $500 reward leading to the conviction of those responsible, and ask anyone with information to call their hotline, at 401-383-9081 or email [email protected]