At the end of February 2025, following the death of a woman in the commune of Ménil-de-Briouze (Orne), authorities discovered over 50 animals living in extremely unsanitary conditions.
All were urgently rescued. Among them, 16 rabbits kept in filthy cages without access to clean water were taken in by the 30 Millions d’Amis Foundation.
“The more we looked, the more we found”
Cornelia Schröter, president of the organization Un Espoir pour les Sans-Voix, was called to the scene by the police. “The more we looked, the more we found,” she said.
The animals included tethered cats, dogs, guinea pigs, miniature horses, goats, a donkey, and various birds crammed into small cages — all living in severe neglect.
Animals tied up and confined in terrible conditions
Many animals were locked in darkness, with dirty enclosures, overgrown nails, and injuries caused by restraints. Six cats were tied inside broken carriers and showed no reaction, having become desensitized to confinement.
They were sterilized and placed in a shelter, but remained fearful of humans. Nearby, birds were kept in small cages with little room to move. The deceased owner is believed to have purchased the animals from private sellers; some of whom later tried to reclaim them but were refused.
In the garden, about 20 rabbits were crowded into dirty hutches with only stagnant water to drink.
“Escaped from hell”
Schröter believes the late woman suffered from “Noah Syndrome” — hoarding more animals than she could care for. “These souls have escaped from hell,” she said.
Most of the animals were taken in by Un Espoir pour les Sans-Voix, while the rest were placed in temporary foster homes by the authorities.
Due to overcrowding, the organization sought help from its partner L’Arche de Bagheera in Essonne, which took in the 16 rabbits.
Rabbits’ health steadily improving
The 16 rabbits arrived at the L’Arche de Bagheera shelter in mid-March 2025 in a weakened state, suffering from conjunctivitis and wounds from fighting. After being isolated, treated, and carefully cared for, their health has significantly improved.
All have been vaccinated, sterilized, and are gradually recovering. Once fully healed, they will be ready to find new loving homes.