RSPCA WA is pleading with people who need to surrender their pets to do so responsibly after three pet rats were found taped in a box and dumped under the Garrett Road Bridge in Bayswater.
The rats were discovered and brought into RSPCA WA by two good Samaritans who were fishing under the bridge on Wednesday.
A note taped to the box read, "please rehome them – 3 good boys – thank you". On the other side of the note, their names – Tiger, Buddy, and Snowy – and descriptions were listed.
The box had holes cut out of it and a bowl of food but no water.
RSPCA WA does not know how long the rats had been sitting under the bridge for but all three arrived at the shelter alive.
Inspector Manager Kylie Green said while the owners appeared to have good intentions, the rats were left in danger and there are much more responsible ways to surrender pets.
"The rats were left under the bridge for an unknown amount of time without water and at risk of predators," she said.
"If they hadn't been discovered when they were, they could easily have died.
"It is clear these rats were loved by their owner but dumping them is illegal and you can be charged for animal cruelty under the Animal Welfare Act 2002.
"We understand life can throw people curveballs and that situations change which may mean you feel you have no choice but to surrender a pet.
"However, there is no need to subject an animal to potential suffering and danger by dumping them.
"Please, if you feel you can no longer care for your pet, please reach out to family or friends, or contact a reputable rescue group."
The rats are currently undergoing vet care at RSPCA WA. Anyone with information about the rats or how they ended up under the bridge is urged to contact RSPCA WA on 1300 278 358.
The RSPCA relies on the community to report incidents of suspected cruelty and neglect. Report cruelty 24/7 on 1300 CRUELTY (1300 278 358) or at rspcawa.org.au
