SPCA Rescues 30 Rabbits In Lower Makefield

LOWER MAKEFIELD TOWNSHIP, PA — Animal-welfare officers in Lower Makefield removed 30 rabbits from a property on Thursday, saying the animals were being kept in unsanitary conditions.

Charges are pending against the owner, who SPCA officials say also had the rabbits in an inadequate shelter that didn't protect them from the weather. The owner has a history of cruelty to animals, including a prior conviction in Bucks County, the SPCA said.

"We are very glad to have rescued these rabbits before this weekend’s winter storm," said BCSPCA humane officer Katherine Hogan. "They were living in a filthy carport with deep piles of feces under the cages. Some of the rabbits had no shelter from the cold and nothing to sit upon except for the wire bottoms of their cages."

The owner relinquished the rabbits to Bucks County SPCA and they are now safe and warm at the organization's two shelters. They've been examined by a veterinarian specializing in exotic pets and some will need medical treatment to be restored to full health, the group said.

Once they have recovered, they will be neutered, micro-chipped and placed for adoption.

"It’s been a busy start to the new year," said BCSCPA Executive Director Linda Reider. "In less than three weeks, we have rescued 34 sick cats, two starving horses, and now 30 rabbits.

"Adding these animals to our existing population of lost and relinquished cats, dogs and other pets, our plate is full providing care and paying for food and medical treatment. Most of the animals are recovering in treatment areas and not yet available for adoption, but please know that we are at maximum capacity. "

Reider said that donations to the groups Animal Relief Fund will go directly to the care of animals from these cases of cruelty and neglect. The group is requesting donations of Oxbow pellets for adult and young rabbits, timothy hay and fresh romaine lettuce, parsley and carrot tops. The horses also need bags of Purina Equine Senior grain, she said.

Anyone interested in donating online may do so here, call 215-794-7425 or visit one of the SPCA's two Bucks County shelters.

Anyone who knows of an animal being neglected or abused in Bucks County can call the Cruelty Hotline at 215-794-7425. Tips can be left anonymously 24 hours a day.

Photo courtesy Bucks County SPCA