While many people may traditionally associate Easter with rabbits, the RSPCA Isle of Wight is urging people to do their research before committing to a new pet.
Rabbits are well-known for their cute looks and fluffy fur, but people are less aware that they are energetic and sociable creatures that require company and stimulation, as well as plenty of space to hop around.
Each year RSPCA Isle of Wight takes in rabbits from owners unable to care for the complex creatures, many of which were bought on impulse around Easter.
Suzanne Pugh from RSPCA Isle of Wight says:
“Caring for rabbits can be extremely rewarding, but it also takes commitment. Ideally, rabbits should be kept in pairs as they are sociable animals, in a hutch and run large enough to stretch in and exercise.
“Sadly, we have a number of rabbits at our re-homing centre in Godshill, because their owners were no longer able to care for them. We are looking for suitable homes for them at the moment, but it is important they go to the right homes where people fully understand the care that rabbits require.”
As well as providing rabbits with interaction and exercise, prospective rabbit owners also need to understand the costs associated with caring for the creatures. Spaying or neutering may also be necessary. Fresh hay should be available at all times and vet’s fees may need to be covered should the animal fall ill.
They are also very clean animals and require their homes to be kept in tip-top condition which is also a considerable commitment.
To find out more about caring for rabbits and the animals currently being looked after by RSPCA Isle of Wight, contact the centre on 01983 840287 or visit https://www.rspca.org.uk/local/isle-of-wight-branch.
If it gets to much just eat it. Pretty tasty, Rabbit.
Careful. What goes around comes around.
In my opinion, pet shops should stop selling baby bunnies before Easter. The poor things get bought because the kids ‘want one’ In a couple of weeks the novelty has passed and the poor bunny gets forgotten and left on its own. Cruel
Forget about rabbits as it now appears that Christianity is outlawed by Easter Egg Manufacturers. All I have seen today in the supermarkets is Chocolate Eggs with the word Easter left out. We must not upset the foreign invaders.