BaBBA is launching an ethical standard to recognise the hard-work and moral values of Rabbit Rescues and Sanctuaries who put the animals first.
Background:
Rabbit rescue centres are not currently required to hold a license, which
means anyone can set one up, without adequate funds, skills, space or resources.
‘Fake’ rescues, breeders posing as rescuers and pet peddlers all use social
media and classified sites to source and resell animals for profit. Those
individuals do not generally understand rabbits needs, neither do they care about
their welfare. Genuine rehoming centres and sanctuaries who work hard to give the animals the life that they deserve, need recognition and support.
Criteria for approval:
– Except contraindications, all rabbits are neutered and fully vaccinated.
– The rabbits are bonded with other rabbits, either at the rescue or in their new home, except in cases where this is considered detrimental to their welfare (behavioural issues, extreme stress or aggression, severe illness etc).
– Home-checks are carried out and a minimum space of 60sq ft is required for adopted rabbits. This also applies to long-term and permanent residents but not to emergency rescue accommodation and other temporary situations prior to adoption, or due to illness, disability, post-surgery, old age, as well as behavioural issues, where the rabbit and happier in a smaller space.
– Life-time support is provided for all adopted rabbits.
– The centres adhere to a no-kill policy. This means that no healthy rabbit is put to sleep, due to lack of space, for not being adopted or if they suffer from behavioural problems or long-term treatable conditions. Sick animals are monitored and euthanasia is only considered where quality of life is seriously compromised, if the rabbit is suffering and deteriorating and it is the kindest decision. A vet is consulted and the rabbit is not left to suffer unnecessarily.
– Integrity means that the centres are not complicit of the pet trade. They do not receive (or no longer receive) money from pet retailers and rely entirely on public donations. They also obtain their supplies elsewhere and are completely opposed to the breeding and selling of rabbits.
Endorsed so far:
Applying:
If you run a rabbit rescue or sanctuary and would like to receive further information on how to apply, please send us a message via the contact page.