FIVE Guinea pigs were left in a box with no food and water and dumped in woodland in Ringwood.

They were discovered by a member of the public on Friday in Hightown and later taken to the RSPCA Ashley Heath Animal Centre.

RSPCA inspector Josephine Story, who is investigating the incident for the animal welfare charity, said: “A woman was walking through the woods when her dog found a box that squeaked and came across these poor little things dumped in the middle of nowhere.

“To dump five small, vulnerable pets in the middle of the woods like this is cruel and unnecessary and I’d like to hear from anyone who might be able to help our investigation into who was responsible for this.

“There was nothing on the box to suggest where they have come from and all that was inside was dirty hay with faeces on the bottom of the box with no food or water.

“It’s saddening to think someone would simply abandon these helpless animals to fend for themselves in the wild where they are sadly just unlikely to make it. Thankfully they were spotted before it was too late and are now safe and getting the care they need.”

The five, female Guinea pigs - who have been named Guinney Pig, Miss Piggy, Piggy Rascal, Piggy Smalls, and Piggy Minaj - will soon begin their search for new homes.

Anyone with information is asked to call the RSPCA's appeal line on 0300 123 8018.