Stray RabbitsFor Immediate ReleaseLately, the House Rabbit Network has had many calls about abandoned domestic rabbits roaming the streets and backyards in various areas in Eastern Massachusetts. Dumping a pet domestic rabbit outside is illegal, not to mention, always a sad situation. The House Rabbit Network recently captured a rabbit in North Andover. A second rabbit was reported seen in the first few days of the rescue attempt, but he soon disappeared and is assumed to be dead. Another rabbit was dumped in Wayland, complete with his cage placed about ten feet into the woods. Despite searching for a couple of weeks, this rabbit was never found and is likely dead. One rabbit was captured in Woburn, another domestic rabbit was found dead along the side of the road. The number of calls that we have gotten this summer concerning dumped rabbits is more than usual. We are concerned about the rabbits that were not rescued. Many die of starvation, get attacked by predators or get killed by cars. Domestic rabbits cannot survive in the wild because they lack the instincts to keep themselves from harm and find food. The rabbits that do survive and are rescued after being abandoned outdoors often have a host of ailments including mites, infections, parasites and wounds. Please remember that you are not doing your rabbit a favor by releasing him outdoors if you can no longer care for him. You are giving him a death sentence and committing a crime. If you absolutely cannot keep your rabbit anymore, surrender him to an animal shelter. The House Rabbit Network is a Massachusetts-based 501 (c)3 non-profit, all-volunteer organization. We are dedicated to saving and adopting unwanted bunnies and educating the public about rabbit care. Do not forget that we have dozens of wonderful bunnies available for adoption! Check out our website, www.rabbitnetwork.org, for information about house rabbits and to see our adoptable rabbits. We also have many volunteer opportunities. Donations of any amount are accepted to fund our efforts to find loving, forever homes for each and every bunny. Thank you for your support!
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