DOZENS of rabbits have been found abandoned in woodland near Chaddesley Corbett prompting an RSPCA appeal for information.
The shocking discoveries on Monday and Tuesday (November 11-12) saw more than 80 rabbits – 23 of which were dead – found in Chaddesley Wood.
At the location, RSPCA inspector Boris Lasserre said he found the dead animals dumped along a path with two live rabbits amongst them. These two rabbits were taken into RSPCA care.
The dead animals were examined by a veterinary surgeon, with post mortems now arranged.
Boris said: “Any animal being deliberately left behind to fend for itself is a serious case of neglect, and it is increasingly shocking that so many rabbits are abandoned at the same time.
“Thankfully a large number of live rabbits were rescued by members of the public who put them in a place of safety overnight.
“It is heartening to hear that so many people have been able to help.”
A total of 56 other rabbits – 16 males and 40 females – were taken in by rescue centre – Lucky Bunny and Friends. The centre in Gornalwood is working with five other charities to help care for the animals, many of which are suspected to be pregnant.
Boris added: “We’d like to thank Lucky Bunny and Friends in particular and we have offered veterinary assistance to them if required.
“These rabbits have clearly been living in a poor environment, and had numerous wounds suggesting there was infighting amongst the group.
“This increases the concerns as to where they have come from and the conditions they were kept in.
“Sadly, abandoned and neglected rabbits are becoming an increasing problem as charities are seeing more and more coming into our care.
“We understand that times are tough at the moment but please never abandon your pet but ask for help before things get so desperate or the animal suffers.”
Anyone with information regarding the abandoned animals is being asked to contact RSPCA’s appeal line, confidentially, on 0300 123 8018.
The charity has a cost-of-living hub to help struggling animal owners access help. Visit https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rabbits for more information.
