A ferret has been rescued after it was abandoned in a dirty cage in Gateshead.
The male animal was found by a passerby in Coatsworth Road on February 7.
It had been dumped behind Adam's Continental Food in a cage that was dirty and had been tipped over.
The cage was also lined with straw, which is unsuitable for ferrets as it can be dusty and affect their sensitive respiratory tracts.
The person who found it took it to their garden before contacting the RSPCA.
Animal collection officer Heather Wade went to get the ferret, which isn’t microchipped or neutered, and is now appealing for information to find out what happened.
She said: “This poor ferret was found in a dirty cage which had been tipped upside down. He isn’t in a bad condition except for having quite overgrown nails and being a little shaken up by his ordeal.
"It was such a cold day and he was quite exposed to the elements when he was found but is getting some much needed care and attention at a rescue centre.
“I am now appealing for information to see if anyone saw anything unusual in Coatsworth Road last Friday, or if anyone recognises this ferret, then please call us on 0300 123 8018."
