The SSPCA's Dumbarton rehoming centre is calling on responsible animal lovers to rescue a rabbit, as it struggles to cope with an influx of unwanted and neglected pets.

The Scottish SPCA is keen to encourage existing and would-be owners to consider taking on a rescue rabbit rather than buying a new rabbit from a shop, as the number of abandoned, unwanted and neglected bunnies coming into its care has steadily increased over the last five years.

Joe McDade, manager of the Dumbarton centre, said: “In 2015 we rescued a staggering 669 rabbits across Scotland, which is a 20 increase on the 555 rabbits we cared for in 2010.”

He says some arrive at the centre in a terrible state, although severe cruelty cases are in the minority.

He added: “The biggest issue is rabbits being put in a hutch and left at the bottom of the garden, with many enduring a life of solitude and boredom.

“Often the only interaction they have is a brief visit from their owner to bring food and water.

“Many owners even find this to be a chore and it is these rabbits which tend to be dumped outdoors or handed into one of our rescue centres unwanted.”

Sadly one of the reasons so many rabbits end up homeless is that some children get bored with them when they grow up – just as if they were a toy they no longer want.

Joe said: “While we never encourage taking on a pet on impulse, we currently have rabbits in our care looking for good, permanent homes.”

Typical of the rabbits in care locally is Oreo, who is a little shy at the moment and doesn't enjoy being handled, although with regular, gentle handling he will slowly grow in confidence.

Oreo will happily use a litter tray so could possibly have free roam of a home and an outdoor run during dry weather.

He has previously lived with a male rabbit but unfortunately they did not get on, and he may prove a good companion to a neutered female.

There are many more to choose from, each with their particular special traits.

Joe added: “Anyone thinking of rehoming a rabbit should ensure they have the time, commitment and financial ability to provide a happy and healthy life.

For more information about rehoming a rescue rabbit call 03000 999 999 or visit scottishspca.org/rehoming.