Vets urged to support Rabbit Awareness Week
"We recognise that the vet community plays a vital role in ensuring that owners are armed with the right information" - Holly Castle, RAAG member.
The organisers of Rabbit Awareness Week (RAW) are asking veterinary practices to get involved in the campaign.
Taking place in three weeks time, from 27 June to 1 July, RAW aims to educate pet owners on rabbit welfare.
Research undertaken by PDSA found that over a quarter of UK rabbits are keep in inadequate housing, and almost half of the UK's rabbits live alone, despite companionship being essential for rabbit welfare.
Taking this research into consideration, the theme for this year's RAW is 'Room for rabbits' – highlighting the necessity of suitable housing and environment for pet rabbits.
Holly Castle, Rabbit Awareness Action Group member, explained why veterinary support is vital for the campaign: “We recognise that the vet community plays a vital role in ensuring that owners are armed with the right information about rabbits’ welfare needs, which is why we are urging practices to download our RAW vet packs and run their own campaigns this year.
“Given the increase in demand for rabbit ownership in the UK in the past two years, it is more important than ever that we educate as many owners as possible, so that these wonderful creatures can live the life they deserve, in the right environment.”
RAW organisers have created free downloadable resources for veterinary professionals to share with clients, including health logs, posters, printable bunting and guidance on RAW campaigns.
Holly added: “Throughout RAW there will be a wealth of great content on Facebook and Instagram, but we need the veterinary community's help in spreading the word in their local areas.”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
