An estimated 300 rats are in dire need of rescue from a home in Rocky Point, Long Island, where they were being kept as pets by a 48-year-old homeowner now facing arrest. This situation has prompted local volunteers from the Strong Island Animal Rescue to step in, working diligently to capture and care for the animals. The home has become a hazardous environment, with rats spilling from kitchen cabinets and overwhelming the floors.
Frankie Floridia, president of Strong Island Animal Rescue, described the conditions inside the house as a “disaster.” Volunteers are equipped with masks and gloves due to the severe sanitary issues present. “It’s very hard to breathe. You need masks. You need gloves. It’s just a bad situation,” he stated. Efforts are ongoing to capture as many rats as possible for veterinary care and rehabilitation.
Veterinary technician Kristin Stephens, who is also volunteering in the rescue operation, noted that many of the rats are suffering from serious injuries, including large wounds and severe infections. “Their eyes are coming out. They have big abscesses. We have a few that are going septic,” she explained. Currently, around 150 rats have been contained in separate containers, organized by sex and health status.
The homeowner has faced significant sanitation violations after officials estimated a total of between 300 and 500 domesticated rats were living in the home. Volunteers discovered rat poison in the basement, which has raised concerns about the welfare of the animals. “We have seen a couple that have had blood coming from their nose, which is what happens when you poison rats,” said Stephens.
The overwhelming number of rats has been attributed to poor breeding practices, according to Stephens. “Everybody knows rodents reproduce very quickly. I personally feel that if they were separated, if you keep the males with the males and the females with the females, none of this could have occurred.”
Despite the grim circumstances, Floridia expressed a glimmer of hope. “It makes us sad, but it also gives us a glimmer of hope that we know that we can get them to safety.” Volunteers are actively seeking foster care opportunities for the rescued rats, as well as monetary donations to support their healthcare needs.
Neighbors surrounding the area reported no unusual smells or sightings, indicating that the situation was primarily contained within the home. The rescue efforts continue as volunteers work tirelessly to ensure the safety and health of these animals, many of whom require immediate medical attention.
For those interested in assisting, the Strong Island Animal Rescue is appealing for support in the form of foster care and financial contributions to cover veterinary costs. The rescue team remains committed to addressing the urgent needs of these animals and restoring them to health.
