Charity urges people to rehome rabbits
The Society said it looked after 373 rabbits in its centres during the first half of 2019.
The Scottish SPCA is urging anyone thinking about getting a rabbit to consider rehoming one.
The call comes after figures released by the charity revealed a 40 per cent rise in the number of rabbits coming into its care. Writing on its website, the Society said it looked after 373 rabbits in its centres during the first half of 2019, compared to 268 in the same period last year.
The Scottish SPCA is highlighting the plight of the popular pet as part of Rabbit Awareness Week (1-9 June).
Sharon Comrie, animal rescue and rehoming superintendent, said: “Some rabbits arrive in our care in a terrible state having been denied basic nutrition and veterinary attention, while others are sadly forgotten pets children have grown tired of.
“The biggest issue is rabbits being put in a hutch and left at the bottom of the garden, with many enduring a life of solitude and boredom. Often the only interaction they have is a brief visit from their owner to bring food and water.
“Many owners even find this to be a chore and it is these rabbits which tend to be dumped outdoors or handed into one of our rescue centres.”
She continued: “While we never encourage taking on a pet on impulse we have many rabbits in our care looking for good, permanent homes. Anyone thinking of rehoming a rabbit should ensure they have the time, commitment and financial ability to provide a happy and healthy life.”
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
