Charity asks potential owners to read up then rescue
Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund (RWAF) has voiced its concerns over an influx of pet rabbits being bought as the summer holidays begin.
According to the charity, rabbits are seen as an easy way to keep children occupied, therefore sales increase dramatically during July and August.
Figures from RWAF show that 200 rabbits go into rescue every day in the UK on average, while thousands more live in solitary, "all but ignored at the bottom of the garden".
It is therefore asking parents to think carefully and do their research first.
"Rabbits are seen as an easy way to keep kids occupied, but the reality is that when the weather turns cold and wet, cleaning out and caring for the animals becomes less attractive," said RWAF CEO, Rae Todd.
"It's the rabbits that pay the price, either through neglect or abandonment. We ask that parents look carefully at what's involved before committing to rabbits as pets – and bear in mind that they can live for 10 years or more."
It was added that RWAF is inundated with calls from owners who have ended up with more than they bargained for because pet-shops have mis-sexed rabbits.
Those who have looked into ownership in depth, and are sure they have the time and commitment for at least two, should head to a rabbit rescue centre, the charity said.
To get clued up, read RWAF's "Hop to it" guide, which includes a chapter called "Are rabbits for me?".
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
