This spring, we are urging the public to think carefully before giving rabbits as Easter gifts – and instead to support the ongoing care of the many rabbits already waiting for homes in our rescue centres.
Each year, in the weeks after Easter, we are overwhelmed by an influx of unwanted rabbits. What begins as a well-meaning gift often ends in heartbreak. Many of these animals are purchased on a whim, only to be abandoned when the reality of their care and commitment sets in.
Hayley McFarlane, Assistant Manager at Glasgow Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre said: “This Easter, we are campaigning to raise money to improve our rabbit accommodation. Rescue centres across the country are currently overrun with rabbits that often end up in our care due to being abandoned or relinquished as their owners no longer want or have time to care for them.
“The Easter season encourages people to buy rabbits from pet shops, often as a present for children in the family, this decision is generally impulsive and driven by the Easter holiday spirit rather than a commitment to rabbit ownership.
“Rabbits are extremely complex animals that require specialised care, lots of space and companionship from their own kind – things many people underestimate or are unaware of when buying a rabbit for Easter. Sadly, many of these rabbits then end up in our care due to the novelty wearing off and their owners realising just how big a commitment they are.”
We are now seeking £7,650 to fund a much-needed upgrade for our rabbit housing. The proposed purpose-built habitats will feature insulated panels and chew-proof edges, creating more durable, comfortable environments for rabbits recovering from trauma or neglect.
In 2024, rabbits under our care waited an average of 77 days to be rehomed – though many stayed much longer. One recent case is Sage and Susan, a bonded pair who spent over 200 days in our centre before finally being adopted into their forever home.
Although Sage and Susan are now flourishing in their new environment, the charity continues to experience a steady increase in rabbit admissions, highlighting the urgent need for improved facilities.
Hayley continues: “This Easter, we are encouraging you to support the rabbits in our care that are waiting to find their forever homes and refrain from purchasing a rabbit as an Easter gift, in doing so you can help reduce the number of rabbits currently in rescue centres across the country and create a positive impact well beyond the Easter period.”
Members of the public can support the campaign by donating to the Scottish SPCA’s crowdfunder here
