Hundreds of guinea pigs up for adoption after couple dumps them in field, surrenders more

WALLA WALLA, Wash. (KEPR) - Ten days ago, the Blue Mountain Humane Society said a couple had dumped about 100 guinea pigs in a field in Umapine, Oregon.

Over the weekend, officials reported the same couple had surrendered 200 more.

"When you're in animal welfare, any time you hear about abandoned animals, your initial instinct is panic and then instantly what can we do, what can we do?" said Sara Archer, executive director for the Blue Mountain Humane Society.

The Blue Mountain Humane Society can't believe one couple did the unthinkable, leaving the guinea pigs on the side of the road.

"The initial response from the community was outrage and frustration and disappointment. Then they come together and they just step up to do whatever it takes," said Archer.

They’re giving around-the-clock attention to the remaining animals in their care.

Right now, the humane society is trying to get 140 guinea pigs adopted. It's also sending some to shelters across the state to help speed up the process.

“Our end goal is to get them transferred as quickly as we can to other shelters and rescues that we partner with and who share our value to never euthanize a healthy adoptable animal,” said Archer.

In the meantime, the humane society is pushing out a message to the community after this hoarding situation got completely out of hand.

"What I really wish people would take in is that help is available if you ask for it and that there are agencies like ours. We will not judge you. We will not enrage you and make you feel small but we are here to help and avoid situations exactly like this," added Archer.

For now, the humane society is putting all its efforts into finding these guinea pigs forever homes.

"I have learned that if you really want to make a difference you let them pass through your care and into homes because then you can move on to save the lives of the next animals that come along," said Archer.

Officials said the case has been handed over to the Umatilla County Prosecutor’s Office. It will decide if the couple will face any charges.

If you would like to adopt some guinea pigs, click here. You can adopt the guinea pigs from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday.