Pet rats need homes after owner charged with neglect

Volunteers and rescue groups have removed and are caring for more than 450 pet rats from a condemned house, with over 200 still awaiting placement; the homeowner has been charged and pleaded not guilty.

Volunteers and shelter staff have removed more than 450 pet rats from a condemned house in a New York City suburb. A team from the Strong Island Animal Rescue League spent about two weeks collecting the animals. Rescue groups and a local animal hospital are nursing the rats and arranging transfers to other states. Police say a three-year-old child had been living at the house in unsanitary conditions, and the homeowner has been charged. Known facts: - Volunteers and the Strong Island Animal Rescue League estimate they have collected over 450 pet rats from the property. - More than 200 rats have been placed in foster or permanent homes, while over 200 remain awaiting placement. - Rescue teams are working with a local animal hospital and with shelters in other states to care for and transport animals. - The homeowner was charged with animal cruelty, neglect and endangering the welfare of a child, and pleaded not guilty at arraignment. Summary: The rescue effort has placed many animals but hundreds still require homes and ongoing care. The homeowner faces criminal charges and entered a not-guilty plea at arraignment. Undetermined at this time.