EUGENE, Ore. – Over 100 pet rats were discovered in two parked cars in Eugene last month, according to local police.
At approximately 10:30 a.m. on September 23, animal welfare officials were called to assist with the towing of two vehicles. Upon removing the tarp from a blue Saturn, officers found several rats inside. The vehicle was littered with rat feces, chewed seat cushions, and trash; there was also a lack of food and minimal water.
Additional rats were located in a nearby gold Suburban. The owner of the rats asserted that they were rescued animals and attempted to lure them out using yogurt, but many were elusive.
Fifty-two rats were successfully captured and transported to Greenhill Humane Society, where three of them subsequently gave birth to 18 newborns. The towing yard kept the cars with the remaining rats, while animal welfare continued to supply food and water until Greenhill could accommodate more.
The investigation into the case is still active, focusing on potential neglect.
