A CALLOUS owner dumped three gerbils by the roadside in freezing conditions.
Tom, Dick and Harry were found shivering and terrified by a passer-by as she travelled to work on Tuesday.
The animals’ cage had been left on a footpath just off Kincardine Road in Falkirk.
The trio had been left with nothing to eat or drink and were struggling to keep warm.
A cream and blue blanket was found near the cage and there was a piece of card inside it, which had been scribbled on, possibly by a child.
HUDDLED TOGETHER
Ambulance Driver Jennifer Hamilton said, “The weather wasn’t great that morning and the wee gerbils were found huddled together for warmth in a wire cage which was open to the elements.
“Kincardine Road is busy with commuters and the footpath is used regularly by dog walkers so we think Tom, Dick and Harry were probably abandoned early that morning.
“It’s irresponsible and cruel to dump your unwanted pets outdoors. Small animals and gerbils in particular can easily perish in the cold.”
The animals are now being cared for by the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is now caring for the gerbils at its Lanarkshire Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Hamilton.
“Abandoning an animal is an offence and anyone found guilty of doing so can expect to be banned from keeping animals for a fixed period or life.
Anyone with information relating to the gerbils should contact the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.
