More than 100 Pet Rats Found in Towed Cars in Oregon
What began as a routine towing job in Eugene, Oregon, quickly escalated when officers found over 100 pet rats living inside two parked vehicles.
Here’s What to Know
On September 23, at around 10:30 a.m., police and animal welfare workers were called to a towing scene involving a blue Saturn and a gold Suburban. Upon inspection, officers discovered the cars were infested with more than 100 pet rats. Disturbingly, 18 more rats were born after some of the animals were rescued and brought to a shelter. The conditions inside the Saturn were particularly dire, with rat droppings everywhere, damaged seat cushions, trash, and little food or water available.
The rats were reported to have been pets owned by an individual who attempted to rescue them by using yogurt as bait, but they proved difficult to catch.
What’s Being Done?
The Greenhill Humane Society took in 52 of the rats during the initial rescue but couldn’t accommodate any more. The remaining rats are being monitored and cared for in the vehicles, with animal welfare workers providing food and water until more space is available at the shelter.
Police have stated that the investigation is open and ongoing, looking into potential neglect.
Where Can I Learn More?
For more stories focusing on animal welfare and urban wildlife issues, consider exploring the following:
- Residents in Lake Tahoe dealt with a similar situation, removing approximately 150 rats from a flood-damaged rental home.
- Officers at Raven Ridge Wildlife Center encountered a boa constrictor wandering through local streets.
- In Tucson, intentional poisoning led to the deaths of pets and wildlife in Pantano Wash.
- Local officials have warned of increasing incidents involving coyotes and dogs in urban neighborhoods.
- Near a wildlife sanctuary in India, officials issued urgent warnings regarding damages caused by rhesus macaques.
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