The Rabbit Residence Rescue

Susie Kearley talks with one of the volunteers at what is probably Britain’s largest specialist rabbit rescue organisation, and learns about the benefits attached to taking on such rabbits as pets.

- Susie Kearley

Despite being the third most popular pet in the UK, rabbits are possibly Britain’s most abused and neglected pet as well. According to a rabbit Welfare Association and Fund (RWAF) survey from 2012, there are over 67,000 rabbits in rescue centres, all across the country, looking for new homes. Too many people are not taking their responsibilities seriously when they buy small baby bunnies from a pet shop.

Lea Facey, a volunteer for rabbit residence rescue, located near Royston in Hertfordshire, knows this all too well. She has been working for this rabbit rescue and rehoming charity for over two years and says: “We currently have over 125 rabbits in our care with 35 pairs available for adoption. We desperately need help - not only donations, but also volunteers, and people prepared to give our healthy rabbits homes.

“Rabbit residence rescue is probably the largest rabbit-only rescue in the UK. We are currently in a situation where we are full to capacity and cannot rescue or rehabilitate any more rabbits until we can find good homes for some of those that we already have here.”

We have lots of choice!

“We have so many rabbits looking for homes that we can offer a wide variety of different breeds and colours. Some are shy, but that shouldn’t put people off, because they become more courageous and friendly when they get to know you. It just takes a little time,” explains lea. “A number have special care needs, but their requirements are all things that we can teach you - like how to give them medication, or a special diet. It doesn’t have to be daunting, especially as the rescue provides ongoing support to people who adopt from us.