The RSPCA has issued a warning after three 'abandoned' pet rabbits were found dead on a footpath in north Manchester.
The charity said it was 'shocked and saddened' by the discovery, which was made on Blackley Vale Fields. The animals were believed to have been part of a group of eight pet rabbits that had been abandoned, only one of which has been found alive.
Two women were reportedly seen pushing a shopping trolley in the area shortly before the rabbits were seen at around 2.45pm last Saturday (February 4). It is not known if the two incidents are connected.
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One male rabbit - found to be underweight, covered in scabs and carrying an old injury to his ear - went into a nearby garden where he was rescued by an RSPCA animal rescue officer. He is now being treated at the charity’s Greater Manchester Animal Hospital.
A further three rabbits were found dead nearby. They are suspected to have died from hypothermia, the RSPCA said. The remainder of the group are still missing.
The RSPCA has warned people against releasing pet rabbits into the wild - a move it described as 'cruel and irresponsible' as the animals rely on humans to house and feed them and it leaves them at risk from predators.
RSPCA animal rescue officer Steve Wickham said: “This was a shocking incident involving a large number of pets who were abandoned and left to their fate and we’re very keen to hear from anyone who may have information about those responsible.
"It’s a common misconception that domestic rabbits will survive if they are released into the wild and the simple answer is that they won’t.
“The rabbit who was found alive was easily handled and has been thoroughly checked over and treated for his torn ear, which could have occurred as a result of infighting with other males in the group he was being kept with. He should go on to make a full recovery and we’ll then look to rehome him.
“If people are struggling to cope with their animals we’d urge them to seek help and advice rather than taking drastic action like we’ve seen here.”
The incident comes as new figures released by the RSPCA reveal its officers dealt with more than 1,500 incidents of animals being abandoned in January - an increase of 10pc on the same time last year.
The charity says it has seen an increase in animals coming into its care amid an increase in pet ownership and the cost of living crisis putting a strain on people’s finances.
A misunderstanding about the true cost of pet ownership is one of the key reasons why more animals are being abandoned, the RSPCA claims. People are urged to do their research and to consider rescuing instead of buying.
The RSPCA has opened a telephone helpline - 0300 123 0650 - to support people, while practical help can be found on a recently-launched cost of living hub for those who may be struggling.
Anyone with finformation about the abandoned rabbits should contact the RSPCA’s inspectorate appeal line, in confidence, on 0300 123 8018.
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