Lanark animal rescue is asking pet owners to find their rabbits a lifelong companion

The non-profit organisation, which has been advocating for rabbit welfare rights for eight years, aims to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome bunnies across Scotland.

As a prey species, rabbits naturally live in large groups for protection and safety so have a built-in desire to be around their own kind.

It’s a common misconception that rabbits are happy to live alone. In reality, studies have shown they consider companionship to be their top priority and would pick it over both space and food.

Rescue director Jeniveeve Russell-Newlands said: “We decided to launch a new campaign to highlight the importance of bunnies being bonded as it’s very unnatural - but sadly quite common - for rabbits to be kept alone.

"Solo rabbits are likely to become lonely, destructive and bored while those that are part of a bonded pair or group live happier and longer lives.In some countries, it’s actually illegal to keep them alone.”

Age, sex, breed and size don’t matter when bonding rabbits so long as they are matched based on their temprement.

To help with this, Baby Blue Bee Bunnies offer a professional “match-making” service to help single pets find their perfect companion - and it’s attracted bookings from all over the UK and Europe.

Jenivee said: “Bonding can be quite a stressful experience for owners but we’re able to study and analyse their behaviour to ensure pairs or groups are matched in the most effective way.

"While it’s important that rabbits sort out their hierarchy together, going through the bonding process in a neutral place helps as it reduces territorial behaviour The largest one we have ever done was for a group of 36 bunnies!

“Despite being one of the most popular pets in the UK, rabbits are amongst the most neglected, at any given time, we usually have around 60 bunnies in our care waiting to be adopted.

"All of our rabbits come neutered and fully vaccinated and our dedicated team of volunteers are always happy to offer help and advice on how to care for them.”

For more information visit www.babybluebeebunnies.com.