Dead rabbits found in floating hutch

A shocking discovery made by a local dog walker has left RSPCA staff desperate to find the cruel culprit who left three pet rabbits to die.

The passer-by found the emaciated bodies of the animals in a hutch that was floating in Nuneaton canal waters close to Raveloe Drive.

The black rabbits, two female and one male, appeared to be around 12 weeks old and RSPCA inspector said they must have experienced a great deal of suffering before starving to death.

When the bodies were found the hutch was soaking wet, dirty and covered in droppings and it seemed that they had been left in extremely poor conditions without food or bedding.

RSPCA inspector, Nicky Foster, said: "These young rabbits have endured unthinkable suffering. The two female and one male rabbit were only around 12 weeks old. To think of what they have gone through in their short lives is so upsetting.

"The hutch they were confined in was far too small for three rabbits. It was completely covered in faeces and had no bedding or food. Looking at the rabbits' pitiful bodies it would appear they starved to death."

The horrific discovery has left RSPCA staff shocked and determined to find the person responsible and they are also keen to inform other rabbit owners how to take care of their pets appropriately.

"This case brings home what as a charity we fear about rabbits - that they are often the most neglected animals and can be the forgotten pet," added Nicky Foster.

"They often lead truly miserable lives in unsuitable accommodation, starved of any form of companionship, sitting bored, lonely and unloved in a hutch at the bottom of the garden.

"I desperately need to find out who was responsible for these rabbits' appalling deaths and I plead with anyone who can help with my enquiries to please get in contact."

Anyone with any information about the incident can call the RSPCA national cruelty and advice line on 0300 1234 999.

Rabbit owners can also learn more about caring for their pets properly at the RSPCA website which can be found at http://www.rspca.org.uk/allaboutanimals/pets/rabbits. Animal lovers who want to join a campaign to improve the lives of rabbits should also go to the website.