Authorities rescued 21 abandoned animals from a New Hampshire home Friday.
According to the New Hampshire SPCA, 10 cats, five rabbits, three gerbils, a guinea pig and two turtles were found at a home on Wanda Lane in Exeter. The home's occupants had been evicted about two weeks earlier.
"When they arrived at the shelter, they were obviously very hungry," New Hampshire SPCA Field Services Manager Steve Sprowl said in a statement. "The cats and rabbits especially were drinking water like they hadn't had it in days, or longer."
The guinea pig was in such poor condition that he had to be euthanized. A veterinarian said that the animals were thin and suffered from flea infestation and that some had ear mites.
The SPCA had already been caring for 32 dogs that were rescued from similar circumstances, including 31 German Shepherds from cases in Bristol and Alexandria.
"I can't remember a time in recent history that we've had this many animals under protective custody," New Hampshire SPCA Executive Director Lisa Dennison said. "While we will always find a way to care for the animals that need us ... it puts a tremendous financial strain on our resources."
The agency is asking for help paying for the animals' care. Click here for more information.
