Text message indicates small animals sent to HSSA processed as food for reptiles

TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — The Humane Society of Southern Arizona now believes the small animals transferred to Tucson from San Diego, then to a private party in the Phoenix area, may have ended up being processed as food for reptiles.

In August, SDHS sent an estimated 318-323 animals, including guinea pigs, rats, rabbits and hamsters, to Tucson citing that it had reached capacity.

The HSSA then transferred the pets to a private, family owned rescue in Maricopa County, owned by Colten Jones.

One day after receiving the animals, Colten Jones sent a text message seeking help in processing a high volume of Guinea pigs and rabbits for food, according to the news release from the Humane Society of Southern Arizona.

"We know that Mr. Jones runs a reptile breeding company called The Fertile Turtle," the HSSA release said. "A part of this business includes selling both live and frozen animals for reptile feed.

The board, staff and volunteers of HSSA and SDHS were outraged, the release said.

"This latest piece of information clearly indicates Mr. Jones’ intention to use these animals as feed instead of finding them adoptive homes," it said. "We are heartbroken for every one of these animals and every individual who shares our concern for them."

A statement from the San Diego Humane Society said SDHS would be pursuing both civil and criminal proceedings. HSSA said in its release that it is also considering legal action.

HSSA Board Chairman Robert Garcia press statement:

More information can be found at HSSAand SDHS.

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