Eggnog the hamster will have a very happy Christmas after all – despite being abandoned in bitterly cold temperatures on the streets of Swansea.
The tiny Russian dwarf hamster was found by a family on the pavement outside their home in the Penllergaer area of the city.
RSPCA Cymru say it is “shocking” someone would dump a hamster like this – but are “over the moon” that Eggnog has been saved.
The hamster was found near a small pile of sawdust, and was making his way down the family’s driveway when they came to his rescue. Sadly, Eggnog was also found with an eye infection – but has been given treatment by vets for this condition.
He was affectionately given the nickname Eggnog by RSPCA staff.
Anyone with information about who may have dumped the hamster is urged to contact the RSPCA on 0300 123 8018, while the animal welfare charity has reissued advice on the long-term commitment any pet is.
The news follows shock new statistics from the RSPCA, showing that 325 animals were reported as abandoned in Wales in December last Christmas season – with more than 4,000 dumped over the festive season across England and Wales as a whole.
RSPCA animal welfare officer Nicole Wallace said: “It really is shocking that someone would dump a hamster like this – on bitterly cold streets with just a sprinkle of sawdust.
“Luckily, we’ve seen a little Christmas miracle – as a family soon found this cute little hamster and took him in.
“Our animal centres are really busy at this time of year. But there was no risk of anybody saying ‘no room at the Inn’ to little Eggnog – who has already been rehomed and is now set for a fantastic Christmas.
“If anyone knows anything about this abandonment, we’d urge them to contact us on 0300 123 8018. We’re over the moon for Eggnog that this was a happy ending – but not all animals are so lucky.
“Sadly, the festive season is a busy time for us – and we do know that sometimes people add a pet to their family at this time of year without doing the necessary research.
“Last Christmas, in Wales alone, reports reached us of 325 abandoned animals. We’d remind anyone looking to add a pet to the family at this wonderful time of year to do their research and ensure it is the right decision for them and the animal.”
