Sarah Jordan, aged 31, received a suspended prison sentence for housing over 100 pet rats in unsanitary and cramped conditions within a single room of her residence in Leyland, Lancashire, according to the RSPCA.
Reports reveal that Jordan allowed the rats to multiply unchecked, resulting in 38 rodents roaming freely while 74 others were confined to cages. The stench of ammonia permeated the air to such an extent that it made breathing difficult for those present.
Preston Magistrates’ Court heard distressing details of the scene, including large nests discovered in drawers and beneath a bookshelf. Shockingly, one rat was observed drinking from a leaking radiator due to the absence of water for the animals.
The dire situation extended to the rats’ health, with several displaying respiratory symptoms, sneezing, fur loss, and scabbing. Additionally, some rats suffered from physical injuries, including a significant untreated wound on one rat’s neck.
Further exacerbating the issue, many female rats were pregnant, resulting in the birth of approximately 80 offspring. The rescue operation was labor-intensive, requiring over two hours for RSPCA officers to capture and transport the rats to veterinary care.
Jess Pierce, an animal rescue officer, described the overwhelming ammonia smell, which caused her eyes to sting and necessitated breaks due to headaches and breathing difficulties.
The court also received a statement from a vet at the RSPCA’s Greater Manchester Animal Hospital, emphasizing the responsibility of pet owners to seek veterinary advice promptly for any signs of illness or injury in their animals.
Jordan admitted to purchasing several male and female rats in Preston and confessed to breeding them for sale, claiming to ensure they went to “the best homes.”
In light of her actions, Jordan faced four charges of breaching animal welfare law. In addition to the suspended prison sentence, she was prohibited from keeping animals, except for cats, for a duration of 15 years. A curfew from 20:00 to 07:00 was also imposed upon her.