Surge Of Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, Turtles At Denver Animal Shelter

DENVER, CO — The Denver Animal Shelter has received a surge of small animals — including rabbits, guinea pigs, mice and turtles — who are searching for their forever homes, the shelter said.

Around 64 small animals are currently living at the shelter, officials said. At this time last year, there were 23 living at the shelter. To make room, space has been taken from areas that are normally used for other animals, the shelter said.

“This is where the community comes in,” said Alice Nightengale, Denver Animal Protection director. “Before you buy a small animal from a pet store, please check with an animal shelter first because there is a lot of need there ... Prices are often more affordable too, and you’ll help a pet in need.”

The cost of small animals starts at $15.

The shelter recommends spending time with the type of animal you want — particularly guinea pigs and rabbits — before taking one home, because people often cite allergies to these animals as the main reason they gave them up, the shelter said. If you bought an animal at a pet store that you’re unable to keep, see if the pet store will take back the animal before bringing it to the shelter, officials urged.

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"While small animals are perceived to be easier to care for than dogs or cats, they do have unique habits and needs," the shelter said in a news release. "It’s important to understand the needs of your future pet before making the commitment to give them a home. For example, rabbits need a lot of space, along with fresh greens, hay, and pellets, and can live up to 13 years. They must be handled very carefully or can be hurt.

"Domestic turtles require a tank big enough to accommodate 10-gallons of water for every inch of their shell length. And, most cold-blooded animals, like snakes and lizards, need to live near electrical outlets to power heat lamps and rocks to regulate and maintain their body temperatures."

If you can’t adopt, consider fostering a homeless pet. A foster parent gives an animal a loving home until it finds its forever family. This also makes room at the shelter for another animal in need. You could also consider volunteering your time at a shelter.

Along with small animals, the shelter continues to see a huge number of cats and dogs with 126 cats and 151 dogs. In 2019, the same time, the shelter housed 96 cats and 95 dogs.

Check out all of our adoptable pets here.