BC SPCA shelters on Vancouver Island have rallied to help 22 rabbits that were surrendered this week in Victoria after their guardian was no longer able to care for them.
The SPCA says that the community member came to them in search of help, causing the organization to spring into action and find shelter, food and veterinary care for all 22 rabbits.
According to Breanne Beckett — BC SPCA’s senior manager for the Victoria region — 13 of the rabbits were transferred to shelters in Port Alberni, Comox, Cowichan and Parksville as part of the organization’s Drive for Lives animal transfer program.
Nine of the rabbits remain in Victoria and Beckett says they are turning to the community for help.
“We are urgently seeking foster homes where the surrendered bunnies can go to help with their socialization while they await adoption,” the BC SPCA senior manager noted.
Beckett says the Victoria shelter has also transferred several of its adoptable cats and dogs to nearby SPCA shelters so that the facility can accommodate its “abundance of buns.”
“We are really focused on what the rabbits need to feel safe and happy, including keeping bonded pairs housed together, providing specialized diets and creating areas for exercise and play,” she says. “Currently half of our dog kennels have been turned into rabbit enclosures.”
According to the SPCA, it expects the medical costs for the rabbits to be a significant amount as the animals require medical checks, vaccinations as well as spay/neuter surgeries.
Anyone willing to help with care costs for the animals or to provide a temporary foster home is being asked to contact the Victoria SPCA at 250.388.7722 or [email protected].
CHEK News
