LOTS OF SUPER SMALL FURRY ANIMALS

The Blue Cross adoption centre at Chalfont St Peter is overrun with small furry animals looking for homes. The centre is currently home to seven rabbits, two guinea pigs, three hamsters and a gerbil.

Many of the animals are lucky to have made it safely to The Blue Cross. Petunia, a ten-month-old rabbit, was found in a box at the side of the road that was disintegrating in the pouring rain. A driving instructor and his student noticed the box was moving and rescued Petunia and the four other rabbits also in the box.

Centre manager Julie Stone said: “People should remember that small pets also take time and effort to look after properly. The hamsters were part of an unwanted litter, which could have been avoided if the hamsters had been sexed and kept separately. Rabbits are often given up, as people do not realise the cost of keeping them, or that they need company.”

The guinea pigs are called Laurel and Hardy. They were born at a Blue Cross centre, when their mum was brought in. They are very friendly and squeak when it is dinnertime.

Anyone can offer any of the animals at the centre a home should call The Blue Cross adoption centre in Chalfont St Peter on 01753 882 560, or visit 10 Grassingham End, Chalfont St Peter.

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Notes to editors

The Blue Cross is Britain's pet charity, providing practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of animal adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees.

Photos available on request.