An urgent warning has been issued to anyone who is thinking of getting a "forgotten pet".
As we head towards Easter, rescue centres across the UK are gearing up for a "surge" in people wanting to buy a pet rabbit. But without the proper research first, these same rescue centres are then inundated just weeks or months later as these rabbits become unwanted pets.
The year-on-year trend has become so strong, people are being urged to do their research first. Rabbits are said to be the "silent sufferers" of the animal world and are often bought for families particularly around Easter.
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Debbie Hughes, at Freshfield Animal Rescue in Sefton said: "Our staff at the Freshfields Animal Rescue Wildlife Unit have been informing and educating the public about the needs of these often misunderstood animals for over 40 years.
Rabbits are sometimes referred to as the silent sufferers of the animal world, for good reason. Often, bunnies are bought as a pet for youngsters around the Easter period, and become outgrown by the children, becoming forgotten about in the garden. There is a pervading myth that all rabbits need is a hutch and a bit of hay – the truth is very different."
Rabbits can often live to over 10 years of age so people are being urged to "think hard before making that commitment", they also need to be vaccinated for Myxomatosis and RHD2. According to the RSPCA, people also are unaware that rabbits have an "unusual digestive system" and are more intelligent than given credit for.
Danielle, who works at Freshfield's Wildlife Unit, added: "As Easter approaches, we once again want to get the message out there that rabbits are for life, not just for Easter. Rabbits are actually complex, social creatures with a need for interaction and stimulation.
"They need space, security and affection to stay well and happy, physically and emotionally. We rehome rabbits to people who can demonstrate that they can provide for both their present and future needs. Outdoor rabbits need a run of no less than seven feet by five feet.
"They need to be rehomed with a friend, as they are social animals who need the company of their own species. We strongly recommend getting both sexes neutered, to minimise the risk of over-breeding and for health risks. This is especially important for female rabbits, where the risk of cervical cancer is high. Our Wildlife Unit is usually full to bursting, with many stray or unwanted rabbits brought in every week."
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