The RSPCA has released CCTV to the public for help after Pets at Home staff found a box with mutilated rats inside.
It was reported that a man purchased two rats from Pets At Home in Kingston Park, Newcastle on Friday, April 1. The man completed the full transaction and provided assurances that he wanted them as pets.
He left a name and address of where they would be rehomed. The following day staff found a box in the car park and inside were the mutilated bodies of the rats, with evidence the animals had been “tortured”.
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Staff at the store reported the matter to the RSPCA and inspector Jacqui Miller is investigating the ‘sickening and disturbing’ case.
Jacqui said: “Cable ties were found tied to each of the rats’ tails and it appears they have been held by the ties while their bottom area was set on fire as there were burn marks present.
“One of the rats had a degloved tail and the tail on the other rat was completely removed. Their bodies appeared crumpled and x-rays showed they both had broken backs and one had a broken leg. The eye of one rat had popped out of the socket. All these injuries suggest the pets were also stamped on.
“I just find this very sickening and disturbing as these poor defenceless animals have been tortured to death. Then it seems the person responsible has decided to abandon the bodies near the store to show what they have achieved - which is a vile twist.”
Jacqui said that investigations have found that the man who bought the rats gave a false name and address.
The RSPCA is now appealing to the public to help identify a man who they believe holds vital information and are keen to trace him.
She said: “The man in the images shown is very distinctive looking and I am hoping someone can identify him. I am appealing for anyone who can identify him to call the RSPCA appeals line on 0300 123 8018.“
A spokesperson for Pets at Home said: “It was a very distressing incident to deal with and we are working closely with the RSPCA to help their investigation in the hope they can trace the person responsible for these cruel acts.”
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