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Rabbit Welfare
Crisis Campaign
Addressing the Rabbit Welfare Conditions in Scotland
The Challenges We're Facing:
Hundreds Of Rabbits Being Given Up
Rescue Demand Increasing
The demand for support in rescuing and rehoming abandoned, neglected, and unwanted rabbits is at an all time high,
As well as between 40 and 60 rabbits within our care at any moment in time, we have waiting lists in excess of 200 rabbits waiting on any space that becomes available within our rescue.
We simply don't have the space or funds to meet the demand.
Rabbits Arriving Need More Care
Welfare Standards Decreasing
We are finding that an increasing number of rabbits being surrendered to us have significant welfare, behavioural or health issues.
We are spending more time and money on average per rabbit than in our 12 year history. We want to get it right for each rabbit, 'Cause everybunny matters!
Rabbits are taking up space within the rescue for longer periods.
Routine Vet Treatments Are Taking Longer
Veterinary Care Challenges
The vet industry faces its own challenges, and this is having a direct impact on us too.
Staff shortages mean that the availability of appointments is very limited. As rabbits are an exotic species, and a veterinary specialism, rabbit savvy vets are also in short supply.
As more independent vet practices join national franchise schemes, veterinary fees and medication costs are soaring!
Cost of Living Impact on Funding
Donations & Fundraising Decreasing
The Cost of Living crisis currently experienced throughout the UK is meaning people have to be more mindful of their spending. Regular donation rates are dropping as people cancel their non-essential monthly outgoings.
During the pandemic, fundraising activities and events have significantly reduced having a direct impact on availability of funds.
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We Rely on Volunteers For Everything We Do
Foster & Volunteer Shortages
Volunteer availability has decreased as a result of people's changes in circumstances: family, work and financial commitments combined with personal health and welfare mean fewer people are able to commit to the work needed within the rescue.
We are 100% volunteer operated, and need volunteers across all aspects of the charity.
There are immediate shortages in areas of Foster Care and Fundraising.
Adoption Rates Create Space For Other Rabbits
Adoption Rates Decreasing
As people adjust to post-pandemic living, and a tightened purse, interest in taking on new rabbits has decreased.
This is the right thing to do for many people, as rabbits are a significant long-term commitment, and adoption of rabbits should not be decided on without considering the impact of the commitment.
But the reduction in adoption rates does mean there are fewer spaces being created within the rescue to accommodate other rabbits in need.