Credits: Social Media
New investigation sheds light on the awful living conditions of pet shop hamsters
A new investigation from Last Chance for Animals (LCA) has revealed the dark origins of hamsters that are sold in some of Americas biggest pet shop chains.�
For many, hamsters are a gateway animal to some of the more popular species of pets like dogs, cats, and rabbits. Though they only live up to 3 years, the excitable bundles of fur make lasting impressions on their owners.�
Pet shop Hamsters are being kept in horrid conditions
The shocking new investigation was completed by the LCA, an international non-profit that looks to eliminate animal exploitation. They do this in several ways including education, investigations, legislation, and public awareness campaigns
Taking an in-depth look at the hamster and small-animal mill industry, investigators discovered a business that is built to produce as many sale-worthy animals as possible. These are then sold to enormous brands like Petco, PetSmart, and Petland.�
In footage obtained throughout their investigation, the LCA highlighted how hamsters were kept in small, overcrowded, and soiled cages with little to no room for enrichment and burrowing. The small animals further exhibited signs of extreme mental distress like pacing.
Arguably the most disturbing discovery was the process of killing any hamsters the breeders deemed sick, injured, over-bred, or ugly. Though a vet was mandated to inspect the areas, there were countless reports of infections, open wounds, eye infections, dehydration, and hair loss.�
“We hope our investigation will shine a light on this issue and ignite a conversation about the commercial small-animal industry,” said LCA founder and president Chris DeRose. “We urge PetSmart, Petland, and Petco to stop selling hamsters and other small animals. Remember when it comes to animals, ‘Adopt Don’t Shop!'”
Experts are concerned by the report
Experts in the animal welfare sector have spoken out about the report while also calling for retailers to step up to the issue.
Tony Adler, from the California Hamster Association, said: The infinitesimally small cages with no enrichment is a deliberate choice against the welfare of the animals. This is especially distressing when considering that it is common for there to be multiple males or entire litters in such a small space, and given the known risk of neurotic bar chewing leading to injury. Hamsters are also burrowing animals, and feel safest when allowed to deeply nest. The current housing is completely inappropriate to the species.
The lack of access to clean drinking water, apparently supplemented with carrots, is additionally appalling. Hamsters are desert dwellers, but still need fresh water to survive. We have seen overuse of vegetables lead to bacterial illnesses and deathespecially in young pups.
