Box of guinea pigs abandoned near Ashland

The Central Missouri Humane Society is looking for people to foster a dozen guinea pigs found abandoned in a box south of Columbia over the weekend.

A Good Samaritan rescued the animals after discovering them next to a dry creek bed near Andrew Sapp Road outside Ashland.

They were very malnourished, dehydrated and showed signs of hair loss. Staff provided them with clean water and fresh food, including kale and carrots. One died on Sunday.

Seven young adults and five one-week old pups remain. After they recover, the agency will put them up for adoption.

If you are interested in fostering the guinea pigs, call (573) 443-7387, ext. 203, or email michelle@cmhspets.org to schedule an interview.