A BOX of baby rabbits was found dumped on the side of Canvey Lake amid a surge in abandoned animals across Essex.

RSPCA Essex South and Southend is searching for new homes for the group of four “young, cheeky and super-friendly” male rabbits.

The rabbits were found in a box alongside 14 other bunnies, dumped by the side Canvey Lake.

RSCPA inspector Sian Ridley who collected the rabbits, said: “I'm keen to hear from anyone who may know who is responsible for abandoning these rabbits in such an irresponsible way. They were so young and vulnerable.

“Sadly, rabbits are becoming an increasing problem across the RSPCA as we are seeing more and more coming into our care, many as a result of the cost of living crisis. Times are tough at the moment but please, please never abandon your pet but ask for help before things get so desperate."

READ MORE

“Friendly is a bit of an understatement for one of the boys who is fond of jumping on his fosterer's head and shoulders,” an RSPCA spokesman said.

“These boys did not have the best start to life but their luck has begun to change. With love, care and dedication shown by our team of foster careers these boys have flourished and are now longing for their forever homes.”

The latest incident of animals being abandoned comes after after six puppies were found shivering in a box in Borwick Lane, Crays Hill, Basildon, last month.

Sadly, three of the puppies – who were suffering from canine parvovirus – died after being taken into care.

The RSPCA branch had to launch a fundraising campaign to pay for the abandoned pups’ treatment as parvovirus is an expensive illness to combat.

Animal abandonment is on the rise, as many owners struggle with the price of keeping pets amid the cost-of-living crisis, the charity has said.

In Essex there were 854 abandoned animals reported to the RSCPA in 2021.

In the first six months of 2022 alone that figure was 750 – a 51 per cent increase from the same period the year before.

The animal charity is appealing for a new home for the abandoned rabbits; all four are fully vaccinated and neutered.

If you are interested visit https://form.jotform.com/222553422831046 or email alice@rspcaessexsouth.org.uk