RWAF Launches Christmas Appeal
The Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund (RWAF) have appealed in the spirit of the season for owners to pay more attention to their pets.
Rabbits are the most neglected pets in the UK. Many live in cramped hutches with no space to exercise, an inadequate diet, and no companionship. A sedentary lifestyle often leads to muscle weakness and a fragile spine, which can lead to a vulnerability to injury when handled. Fly strike and other medical problems are rife.
The RWAF recommends that a rabbit should have a suitable hutch connected to a safe exercise area, plenty of warm and dry bedding that should be replaced regularly, and a healthy diet with a strong emphasis on grass.
They also recommend that a rabbit should be neutered and bonded with another neutered rabbit, because rabbits never live alone in the wild and the domestic rabbit values companionship as much as food. And what better time for companionship than Christmas?
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.
