TEN ferrets were left on the doorstep of an animal shelter.
Staff at the RSPCA Halifax, Huddersfield and District branch said a member of the public found them in a cramped and filthy cage on moorland near Holmfirth on Saturday.
Adele Garbinskas, from the shelter, said: “On inspection we found there was mum, dad and eight youngsters.
“All the ferrets were covered in their own urine and faeces, some were so bad they had urine burns on their legs and stomachs.
“Our centre staff were shocked both by the conditions of the ferrets and also the horrendous smell. It is unknown how long the ferrets had been kept like this.”
Centre Supervisor Gary Noble gave them all a bath and settled them in a new enclosure which has climbing frames and a variety of toys.
Adele added: “They will be getting checked by a vet this week and are looking for permanent loving homes.”
Ferrets are social animals and like to live in pairs or small groups providing the accommodation is of an adequate size.
If anyone is interested in adopting a ferret or would like more information, please contact the Animal Centre in Halifax on 01422 365628.
