Protecting the local bunny population at Parkmore
In a bid to protect the local wildlife and prevent the spread of a deadly virus, volunteers have recently put up signs around the local park warning residents against abandoning their pet rabbits.
Due to an outbreak of rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) at the Field and Study Park Centre, concerned volunteers have taken action to safeguard some of the local bunny population.
New signs have been placed around the centre urging residents not to abandon their pet rabbits in the park.
According to one of the people who is hands-on with the bunnies, Meahni Pieterse from Berario Bunnies, rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) is a highly contagious and often fatal viral disease.
“The virus can cause severe internal bleeding, leading to sudden death in infected rabbits. It spreads rapidly through direct contact with infected rabbits or through contaminated objects and surfaces.
“If they do show signs, it includes fever, no appetite, lethargy, muscle spasms, breathing difficulties, blue-coloured lips, or bleeding from the mouth and nose.”
Dominique Rowberry, who has dedicated her time to the park bunnies, said the outbreak had raised alarms among local animal welfare groups and rabbit owners.
“RHDV poses a significant threat to both wild and domestic rabbit populations. It can devastate local ecosystems by reducing the population of wild rabbits, which play a crucial role in the food chain. For pet owners, the disease can result in the heartbreaking loss of beloved pets.”
She added they had noticed an increase in the number of abandoned rabbits in the park. In response to this urgent situation, she and dedicated volunteers have installed signs around the park to inform the public about the dangers of the virus and the importance of not abandoning pet rabbits in the park.
“These signs serve as a crucial reminder that dumping domestic rabbits into the wild is not only irresponsible but can also contribute to the spread of the deadly virus.”
Réney Warrington from ARC Rabbit Assist said, “People might think they are doing the rabbits a favour by releasing them into the wild, but they are putting them at great risk. Domestic rabbits are not equipped to survive in the wild, and with the current RHDV outbreak, their chances of survival are even slimmer.”
Warrington gave tips on how one can help:
- Avoid abandoning rabbits: If you can no longer care for your pet rabbit, contact local animal shelters or rabbit rescue organisations. They can provide the necessary care and help find a new home for your pet.
- Report abandoned rabbits: If you see abandoned rabbits in the park or other areas, report them to local animal control authorities. Quick action can help prevent the spread of RHDV.
- Practise good hygiene: If you own rabbits, ensure that you follow strict hygiene practices to prevent the spread of the virus. This includes cleaning and disinfecting their living spaces regularly.
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