A NEW Weymouth rabbit rescue charity is urging people to buy chocolate and not pet bunnies as presents this Easter.

Manager of Rosie Rabbits Rescue, Julie Rose, said: “As Spring approaches and we start to think of Easter the idea of buying a cute fluffy pet rabbit for a child is never more appealing.

“However many impulse purchases of rabbits end up in tragedy with new figures revealing that over 35,000 rabbits are currently abandoned into rescue centres.

“Children soon get bored with the rabbits or the owners don’t fully understand their needs – for example an adult rabbit needs as much exercise as a small dog.”

She added that rabbits were the third most popular pet in Britain but also one of the most neglected. Rabbit charities have collectively launched the Make Mine Chocolate campaign this year to warn people against impulse purchases of rabbits as pets and encouraging people to buy a toy or chocolate bunny instead.

Julie added that rabbits are an extremely big commitment that require as much time, effort and love as cats and dogs.

A well cared for rabbit can live up to 10 years providing it has the right diet, adequate sized housing, regular health checks and lots of space to exercise.

The Make Mine Chocolate campaign has the backing of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and other animal organisations.