TWO guinea pigs were abandoned in a battered and broken cage in Paisley.

The Scottish SPCA is now appealing for information after the charity was alerted to the animals which had been left on some grass near Trident House in the Renfrew Road area.

Inspector Gillian Dick said: “This was a very cruel act and the pair could have easily escaped their cage and been injured or even killed by a car.

"We’re very glad they were rescued before they came to harm.

“Whoever dumped these poor guys also couldn't have known they would be found by someone who would help them.

“The two guinea pigs, named AJ and Pete by staff at our centre in Glasgow, will stay in our care until we find them the loving new home they deserve.

“We are asking anyone in the area who may know who dumped them in this way to contact us as soon as possible on 03000 999 999.”

Abandoning an animal is an offence under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.

Anyone found guilty of doing so can expect to be banned from keeping animals for a fixed period or life.