Rating:

0.0 (0 votes)

TUCSON - A baby chinchilla has recovered from amputation surgery after being found in the Humane Society parking lot in a box with a mangled hind leg

Staff at the Humane Society of Southern Arizona discovered a one-week-old chinchilla and rushed it to the HSSA clinic, where baby "Squeaks" underwent a delicate surgery by veterinarian Dr. Karter Neal to remove his crushed limb.

The baby, which weights just one-tenth of a pound, recovered from the surgery with flying colors, and was hopping around in no time, the HSSAZ stated in a news release.

A local chinchilla rescue group stepped up to give newborn Squeaks the best start possible, matching him with Serendipity, a mother chinchilla with two new babies of her own.

"It was love at first sight," explains Susan Leonetti, who has been caring for Squeaks for a few days. "Serendipity flips Squeaks over and gently cleans him without touching the bandage. She's a great mom! '"

Squeaks will stay close with his adoptive mom and siblings for the next several weeks until he is full-grown.

HSSAZ said that they currently have two dozen "pocket pets" in need of a good home, including rabbits, rats, guinea pigs and chickens.

To meet with a variety of pets and select your new best friend, visit the Humane Society of Southern Arizona's main shelter at 3450 N. Kelvin Blvd. seven days a week. Call (520) 327­6088 for more information, or visit:

www.hssaz.org