Rabbits are not just for Easter. RSPCA Devon project responds to growing welfare crisis

The Devon charity, based in Exeter, is currently constructing The Warren, a brand new rabbit and guinea pig facility that will provide modern, purpose-built accommodation for some of the most overlooked animals in rescue across the UK.

As Easter approaches, RSPCA Little Valley Animal Shelter is urging the public to think carefully before taking on rabbits as pets, while highlighting a major new project designed to transform their care for years to come.

The Devon charity, based in Exeter, is currently constructing The Warren, a brand new rabbit and guinea pig facility that will provide modern, purpose-built accommodation for some of the most overlooked animals in rescue across the UK.

While chocolate eggs and fluffy bunnies are a familiar part of Easter celebrations, the reality for many rabbits is very different.

“Rabbits are one of the most misunderstood pets in the UK,” said Jo Blake (Little Valley Shelter Manager). “They are often seen as an easy or temporary pet, particularly around Easter, but in reality they require specialist care, companionship, specialist accommodation and a long-term commitment. Sadly, many are bought without that understanding, and it’s charities like ours that pick up the pieces.”

Across the UK, rabbit welfare is under increasing pressure. It is estimated that up to 100,000 rabbits enter rescue centres each year, while many charities are already at full capacity. At the same time, recent figures suggest that nearly half of the UK’s rabbit rescues have closed or are at risk of closing due to financial pressures — placing even greater demand on the centres that remain.

The RSPCA has also reported significant strain on its services, rescuing thousands of rabbits in recent years, with centres described as “full to bursting” as rehoming struggles to keep pace.

Recent data from the PDSA Animal Wellbeing Report highlights the scale of the issue. Around half of pet rabbits in the UK (an estimated 400,000 animals) are not having their basic welfare needs met, with many living alone despite being highly social animals. This is despite 94% of owners believing they understand their rabbit’s needs, pointing to a significant gap between perception and reality.

At the same time, the UK rabbit population has fallen to around 800,000, yet demand on rescue centres continues to grow, highlighting a widening disconnect between ownership and welfare.

In response to this growing need, RSPCA Little Valley is investing in The Warren, a purpose-built facility that will significantly improve the way rabbits and guinea pigs are cared for at the shelter.

The new centre will feature modern housing, improved biosecurity, and enriched environments designed specifically around the needs of small animals, helping them recover, thrive, and find loving homes.

“As we mark 35 years of RSPCA Little Valley, it’s unusual to have no rabbits at the shelter for the first time in decades.”Says Little Valley’s CEO Hugh Lowson, “But this is a reflection of our commitment to getting things right. We’re building a new, purpose-designed facility that will significantly improve the care we can offer, and we look forward to reopening and helping even more rabbits and guinea pigs in the future.”

To help fund the development, the charity has launched a “Buy a Brick” campaign, inviting supporters to leave a lasting mark on the building while directly supporting animals in need.

“This Easter, instead of giving a chocolate bunny, we’re asking people to help build a better future for real ones,” added Hayley Hukku, RSPCA Devon’s Fundraising Manager. “With fewer rescue spaces available and more rabbits needing help than ever before, projects like The Warren are no longer optional — they are essential.”

Supporters can sponsor a digital brick from £10 or purchase a physical plaque from £500, with a fundraising target of £30,000 to reach by September. 

The charity is inviting local schools, colleges, businesses and other organisations to raise money through events or challenges to purchase a special plaque within the Warren to recognise their fundraising efforts.

The Warren is expected to open later this year and will play a vital role in improving the lives of rabbits and guinea pigs across Devon.

To find out more or support the campaign, visit: https://rspca-littlevalley.org.uk/warren/