Yahoo News Rabbit rescue sent 163 Amazon packages by kind strangers after 100 bunnies dumped in wood
A rabbit rescue has thanked supporters after receiving 163 Amazon packages to help with the care of 56 bunnies. It comes after around 100 were dumped in Chaddesley Wood in Worcestershire.
Sadly, many were found dead by members of the public who quickly worked to rescue the live pets. Local rescues were called in to support and around 80 rabbits were found alongside 23 dead bodies of bunnies which 'showed signs of fighting,' according to the RSPCA.
Since the discovery on Monday, November 11, multiple non-profit organisations have gone above and beyond to help the rabbits with Dudley-based Lucky Bunny and Friends Rescue initially taking in 56.
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They have since received 163 Amazon packages from supporters with supplies to help care for the rabbits - many of whom are already at the vets for spaying operations and vaccinations. A spokesperson for the rescue said: "You guys are amazing, never in our wildest dreams did we think we would ever receive a donation delivery this big.
"From the bottom of our hearts we cannot thank you all enough. We have so many more people to thank and you have all been amazing and we are lost for words for your kindness and are about to do some serious unpacking."
They added: "A special thank you today to Berkshire Animal Rescue, Eastbourne Rabbit & Guinea Pig Rescue and Hug A Bunny Hotel who took a total of 14 bunnies between them! Hannah’s Guinea Pig Sanctuary who also kindly took 9 rabbits from us as no one rescue could cope with this many rabbits so we are so thankful for them."
They added that a number of people have expressed interest in adopting the rabbits and that they will be informed when they are ready.
RSPCA Inspector, Boris Lasserre, added: "Any animal being deliberately left behind to fend for itself is a serious case of neglect, and it is increasingly shocking that so many rabbits are abandoned at the same time. The RSPCA is actively investigating this.
"Thankfully a large number of live rabbits were rescued by the members of the public who came across them, and put them in a place of safety overnight. It is heartening to hear that so many people have been able to help as charities rely on working in partnership with each other to create a better world for every kind.
"We’d like to thank Lucky Bunny and Friends in particular for taking in the 56 live rabbits and we have offered veterinary assistance to them if required for any in need."
Boris added that 23 were found dead. He said: "These rabbits have clearly been living in a poor environment, and had numerous wounds suggesting there was infighting amongst the group. This increases the concerns as to where they have come from and the conditions they were kept in.
Lucky Bunny and Friends Rescue - based in Gornalwood - is now working with five other charities to help with the ongoing care of the rabbits. Click here to donate towards their care.
"We are keen to hear from anyone who may know who is responsible for abandoning these rabbits in such an irresponsible way. “Sadly, abandoned and neglected rabbits are becoming an increasing problem as charities are seeing more and more coming into our care. We understand that times are tough at the moment but please never abandon your pet but ask for help before things get so desperate or the animal suffers.
“The RSPCA has a cost of living hub to help owners access help. The charity has also launched its Join The Christmas Rescue campaign ahead of what is expected to be another bleak winter for thousands of animals.
“Anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area or has first hand information that could assist the RSPCA’s investigation should contact the charity’s appeal line, confidentially, on 0300 123 8018.”
