Stray rabbits safe and loved this Christmas

Three rabbits found trying to survive in the wild after being abandoned last December are safe and happy now.

Dasher, Blitzen and Donna, thought to be siblings, were picked up by the RSPCA and brought to our Hertfordshire rehoming centre during the grip of winter 2024.

The black silver fox rabbits previously lived in a hutch but were allegedly set free when their owners vacated the property.

Naomi Gosheron-Parr, Adoptions Coordinator, says: “We were told the owners had abandoned the rabbits and let them out into the neighbourhood. Dasher was found first by himself, and then they found Donna and Blitzen the following day.”

In cold weather, without food, and under the constant threat of predators, it’s unlikely the trio, thought to be aged one when found, would have survived without help much longer.

Naomi continues: “They were very wet and had urine staining. It’s clear that they have not been in the best accommodation, but their teeth don’t look too bad.”

As the rabbits were not neutered, our team immediately separated them. This is because there was a risk of conflict between brothers Dasher and Blitzen without Donna, who needed to be isolated in case she was pregnant.

Although rabbits need to be kept together - ideally in pairs of the opposite sex - to be happy long-term, the three siblings coped well during their time in Blue Cross care.

Naomi says: “Dasher is quite outgoing and a little bit cheeky. He’s often running around and binkying.

“Blitzen is a little bit calmer but friendly, and loves jumping and climbing. He’s still inquisitive. But Donna is very shy.”

And it wasn't long before a fresh start with new companions beckoned for all three rabbits. All three were soon adopted and can this year look forward to Christmases in homes where they'll always know love and happiness.