RSPCA urges public not to abandon pets after four rabbits dumped at Ashley Heath Animal Centre in Ringwood

The RSPCA is urging people not to abandon their pets after four rabbits were dumped at their Ringwood centre late one evening.

Staff at the Ashley Heath Animal Centre say they were fortunate to spot the two hutches, containing two males and two females, after they were left between 9.40pm and 10pm on Tuesday.

Supervisor Nicola Anthony said: “These poor rabbits were very stressed when we brought them into the centre. It was only by chance we spotted the hutches as they were to the side of the gate and not easily seen – otherwise they could have been left out there all night.

“I do dread to think what may have happened to them if we hadn’t spotted them when we did, as we know there is a family of foxes in the area.”

She added: “When we checked the security camera footage we could see that the hutches, which are a decent size, were dropped off from the back of a flatbed lorry, but unfortunately neither the number plate or the two people who dropped them off are clear enough to identify.”

The female rabbits have been named Lemon Drop and Candy Pop, with the males called Humbug and Mr Worthers on account of their “sweet” nature, which the charity says shows they are used to being handled.

Nicola added: “Each pair had been left with food and water, which was at least something, but unfortunately the hutches were quite dirty with urine and faeces which we think must have been at least a few days worth of toileting.

“The hutches also look fairly new which makes me think that these rabbits have perhaps been bought on a whim and the owners soon realised they were more complicated to care for than they originally thought, or they could no longer afford to keep them.

“We understand that people may be struggling, especially at the moment with a cost of living crisis, but we would urge owners not to abandon their pets and instead to reach out for help from friends and family, or charities like ourselves.”

She continued: “Luckily we have been able to take these sweet buns in, where they are getting the care and attention they need; however, animal centres across the RSPCA are full-to-bursting at the moment so people must not dump pets on animal centre doorsteps in this way, or anywhere else.”

Witnesses or anyone with information on the abandoned rabbits should call 0300 123 8018.

The RSPCA receives more reports of cruelty in summer than at any other time of year, prompting it to launch its latest fundraising campaign. For more information or to donate visit www.rspca.org.uk