Why rabbit rescue centres dread Easter

Centuries-old traditions cause huge problems for rabbit rescue centres at this time of year – but you can help…

How did rabbits become so closely associated with Easter? The link can be traced back to America in the 1700s, when German immigrants arrived in Pennsylvania and transported their tradition of an egg-laying hare called ‘Osterhase’ or ‘Oschter Haws’. Their children made nests in which this creature could lay its coloured eggs. But in the 21st Century, the tradition of the Easter bunny continues to cause misery for rabbits and rescue centres across the UK. Just the word ‘Easter’ fills staff at rabbit rescue centres with dread, because they know it means the number of neglected and abandoned rabbits will escalate over the days and weeks that follow. Many rescue centres are still trying to rehome abandoned rabbits from last Easter and even the year before that. Rabbit Welfare Association veterinary adviser Richard Saunders, says: “As the weather warms up and the shops and websites fill with ‘baby rabbits for sale’, there is of course an increase in the number of people buying at this time of year, usually for their children. “Rabbits are undeniably cute and their appeal is huge, but, from the rabbits’ point of view, there are grave consequences.” Richard adds “Rabbits naturally live in social groups and are happiest kept with other compatible rabbits. However, at eight weeks old they are likely to be plucked from their family and kept alone. Make no mistake about it, they will find this very stressful and become unhappy,” says Richard. Not many people realise that at three to four months old, neutering is essential for both male and female rabbits, as cute baby rabbits can turn into unhappy, hormonal pets very quickly.” Research from the PDSA PAW Report has shown that many rabbits are also likely to be fed an incorrect diet, and kept in housing that is too small for them. “Owners often find the true costs of caring for rabbits a shock; vaccinations, neutering, feeding and housing can all add up to around £10,000 over the animal’s lifetime. “Faced with rabbits who are unhappy, owners often give up and want to rehome their pets. The lucky ones end up in rescue. The notso-lucky ones begin the ‘classified ad’ circuit and can spend the rest of their lives going from one unsuitable home to another.” Richard Saunders BSc (Hons), BVSc, MSB, CBiol, DZooMed (Mammalian), MRCVS, RCVS Specialist in Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, RWAF Veterinary Adviser