How can a squirrel destroy a gas tank?

[SheffieldSteel]

I took in my '06 Corolla to the dealership to find out exactly what was causing the check engine light to come on, and they showed me that a squirrel (or whatever) has eaten its way through the evaporative emissions control line that runs from the gas tank. Because this line has a shrink-to-fit attachment to the gas tank, and because it is made of a corrugated plastic, it can't be repaired or replaced - the only remedy (according to the dealership) is a new gas tank, which including parts and labor will cost almost $800.

(Side note: Because the damage was caused by vermin, the Platinum Service Plan is worth $0.)

Has anyone else had this problem? Is there any way to repair this line?

[mikered30]

Insurance may cover it but after the deductible and filing a claim it may not be worth it. A junk yard may have your answer.