why do we bother a bit of a moan

I have been asking myself this question recemtly as the rabbit problem seems to be getting worse, I don't know whether it is just in my area or throughout the country,
Just this week 3 sanctuarys that did rabbits are no longer going to take them in as they are finding there are to many unwanted ones, the thing I wonder about that is why set up as a sanc if you are only going to take cats and dogs surely all animals deserve a chance.

At the moment there is about 3 places taking in rabbits in the manchester area and these are mainly home run rescues.

Even one of the big rescues has now asked if I can take their rabbits in as they can no longer cope with the amount they have coming in, to which I have had to say no as I have enough of a problem with ones coming in myself

Unfortunatly Elaine it seems many people see cats and dogs more worthwhile as being "saved".

All we can do is keep on trying im afraid :?

That's a bizarre reason for stopping taking unwanted pets in :? The same applies to dogs and cats too: no shortage of them needing re-homing. Tho I do think people consider 'small animals' as more disposable.

Cheer up and keep going! The bunnies appreciate the work I've sent you an email with pics of my bunny that I adopted from you in January.

Sadly i think it's the same all over Elaine

I've had periods where I've been really depressed by the situation but you have to keep going..you may not be able to save them all but look at the difference you make to the ones you do take in. Where would they be without you?

I think you just have to look at the many pictures on here of all the happy rescue rabbits and see how worth it it is.

No one is every going to change the world alone. But so many people on here are making a difference and I think that means alot!

I have two rescue bunnies myself.

I think one of the problems comes from people wanting 'baby' rabbits and not being willing to take an older rabbit. You'd be surprised at how many people I know think all rescue animals are flea ridden and near death!

Also, lots of people just don't know that there are rescue centres for small animals, they just don't get the same publicity.

The major problem though is the misconception that rabbits are easy, cheap pets to keep and suitable for children. They're not (I know, I've just spent £40 in the vet this morning)! They kick and they have very specialised needs with regards to diet. However, this misconception will not change overnight.

it must be so disheartening as a rescue to see the constant stream of rabbits coming through, and then there are so many that you cannot take in.

but all of the rescues out there do a fantastic job and help so many rabbits to find new homes and they would never get that chance without you

I'm just worried about the weeks after Easter, when all the living presents are given away to sanctuarys, because the children lost interest or the "evil" bunnies bite and scratch.
To many people small animals like rabbits are no respectable personality but just a toy. :evil:

I wish all people who run a shelter or take care of animals in some other way a lot of energy for their job!

Hi Elaine,

I am sorry you are feeling down. Most days I ask myself why I keep doing the rescue work, it is often very lonely, always exhausting, and you know you can never do enough.

I have only being doing it for 6 years, but I have never known the situation as bad as it is at present. And I swear if another person hands over their bunny to me as though they are doing me a favour I will scream!!

But if we aren't able to keep going who is going to help them. Larger rescues do often view rabbits as a nuisance, they are so overwrought trying to cope with the cats and dogs bunnies are too often considered second class animals.

But, it is true what Jill says. If we can make a difference to some bunnies lives that is what it is about. I know we cannot forget those we are unable to help, or get them out of our minds, but we are doing something. The fantastic homes offered to these beautiful creatures are out of this world, and I have met some wonderful friends through rescue work.

Please keep trucking Elaine, you are making a difference

Alice x