AN ANIMAL rescue charity is urging residents to think very carefully before buying a rabbit this Easter as it struggle to cope with the number of bunnies needing their help.

Margaret Green Animal Rescue says often rabbits are bought as presents at Christmas and Easter, but are soon looking for new homes as children loose interest or families move away.

Owners often get the sex of their rabbits wrong too, which leads to unwanted pregnancies and unexpected litters of little mouths to feed.

In the last two weeks Margaret Green Animal Rescue has had to turn away 55 rabbits needing homes because it doesn't have the space to take in any more.

With Easter around the corner, the charity is urging people not to impulse buy rabbits as cute Easter bunny gifts.

Kate Wickins, manager at Margaret Green Animal Rescue’s Church Knowle Sanctuary said: “Rabbits make wonderful pets but they have very complex needs which must be considered carefully. Your rabbits will live to around eight-12 years old so it is essential you can provide for them for this time.

"We would also recommend that you neuter any rabbits that you do have. Neutering not only prevents unwanted pregnancies, but it usually makes your rabbit happier and healthier too as it reduces the risk of disease.”

The charity says might be adorable, but there are some very important things to consider when keeping rabbits. For example, rabbits need a large hutch and a run or exercise area where they can run, leap, dig, frolic and graze as well. A rabbit hutch should be roomy enough for all the rabbits to be able to lie down, stretch and hop three times across from one end to the other. Rabbits are also very social and hate to be left alone. They are happiest with another rabbit or in a group of rabbits.

Margaret Green Animal Rescue would like to hear from anyone seriously considering keeping rabbits and would be happy to provide any advice or information. To get in touch, please call 01929 480474 or email ck@margaretgreenanimalrescue.org.uk.

You can also visit the charity’s Church Knowle Sanctuary and meet the rabbits that are waiting to find their forever homes. This weekend the Sanctuary has organised an Easter Trail between Good Friday and Easter Monday. Entry to the sanctuary is free and the trail is £1 for those that wish to join in. Opening times are 10am – 4pm.

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