An estimated 67,000 bunnies need a home.
Often seen as a “starter” pet, rabbits with an average life span of 7 to 12 years are anything but basic. They are intelligent and sociable animals and many end up being abandoned as a result. That’s why Animed, the online pet retailer, has featured two rescue rabbits from Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, Oxo and Aquarius, in their latest advertising campaign in a bid to encourage people to adopt rather than buy a pet rabbit.
“There’s over 6o thousand rabbits in the UK looking for a home and we want to encourage people to give these lovable pets a second chance”, says vet Jess Simmonds from Animed. With thousands of bunnies waiting for their forever home, Animed is delighted to use this opportunity to promote animal adoption”.
“We are thrilled Animed has chosen Oxo and Aquarius to be the stars of their new advertising campaign”, says Holly Mansfield from Bristol Animal Rescue Centre. “This is wonderful opportunity to shine a spotlight on adopting a rabbit and the joy of offering a pet a loving home”.
Animed is also highlighting the importance of preparation and commitment when adopting a pet. Everything from food and toys to bedding to healthcare. As a trusted one-stop pet care retailer, Animed offers everything owners need to ensure their rabbit (and any pet) thrives from day one.
Here are Animed’s Jess’ Top 10 Tips for preparing to adopt a pet:
1. Prepare a safe space where your new pet can retreat and feel secure. This helps reduce stress and gives them time to adjust.
2. Give them time to decompress. Rescue animals may be overwhelmed at first. Allow them a few days (or even weeks) to settle in without too much stimulation or handling.
3. Stick to a routine including consistent feeding times, walks and bedtime to help build trust and stability.
4. Limit visitors initially as introductions to too many new people and pets can be overwhelming.
5. Let them come to you. Avoid forcing interaction. Allow the pet to approach you when they feel ready to build trust naturally.
6. Use positive reinforcement. Reward calm behaviour, curiosity and good manners with treats, praise or play. Avoid punishment-based training.
7. Keep things calm by speaking softly, moving slowly and avoiding loud noises. A calm environment helps the pet feel safe.
8. Introduce other pets gradually. Use scent swapping, controlled meetings and supervised interactions to ease introductions with existing pets.
9. Visit the vet early and schedule a health check soon after adoption to ensure your pet is healthy and to discuss any concerns.
10. Be patient and compassionate. Every rescue pet has a unique history. Progress may be slow but with love and consistency, they’ll begin to thrive.
While not a formal partner of Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, Animed deeply values the vital work they do for animals across the region and has made a monetary donation along with a box of rabbit food and accessories to help other animals in their care.