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Findings mark the start of Rabbit Awareness Week 2020.
Rabbits have been living happier and healthier lives as a result of the coronavirus lockdown, according to new research.
Findings from the Pets in Lockdown survey – published to mark the start of Rabbit Awareness Week (RAW) - show that 88 per cent of rabbit owners have been spending more time playing with their rabbits. A further 99 per cent reported enjoyed the extra time they have been able to spend with their animals.
The findings also reveal that many rabbit owners have used the lockdown to treat their animals and enhance their quality of life. Some 47 per cent of owners said they had spent more money on toys and boredom breakers, while 26 per cent said they splashed out on improving their rabbits' accommodation.
Dr Suzanne Moyes from Burgess Pet Care, the organisers behind RAW, said: “Veterinary research consistently shows rabbits as being one of the UK’s most neglected pets so it’s amazing to see that so many rabbits are living happier and healthier lives as a result of lockdown.
"In addition to ensuring their rabbits are kept in pairs and have constant access to high-quality feeding hay, it’s a positive sign that rabbit owners are making all of the right moves to address poor quality accommodation and lack of regular interaction – two of the key contributors to unhappy bunnies!”
Despite some one million pet rabbits living in the UK, research shows they are the UK's most neglected pet. According to the PDSA's Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report, 49 per cent of rabbits continue to live alone, while 25 per cent live in adequate conditions.
To help address this issue, this year's RAW campaign will take place digitally as a two-week virtual festival, featuring live Q&As and educational videos from the UK’s leading animal welfare organisations and charities. The content is free and can be accessed through the Rabbit Awareness Week Facebook page.
Dr Moyes added: “Rabbits make fantastic pets but it’s important for owners to do their research in advance of welcoming rabbits into their home so they can understand the responsibilities that are involved.
"While social distancing measures mean we’ve had to take a digital approach for this year’s RAW campaign, rabbit owners can learn everything they need to know about rabbits from the UK’s leading animal welfare experts by taking part in this year’s campaign online.”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
