RABBIT lovers are being given an opportunity to attend a special care day event at a Sale sanctuary, hosted by the Society for Abandoned Animals, writes Tom Dyson.

The rabbit care day takes place on March 9 and will offer plenty of advice on all aspects of bunny care, from hutches and grooming to feeding and bonding.

Even existing rabbit owners can bring in their bunnies for low cost vaccinations and free health checks.

The sanctuary, just off Dane Road, is home to 30 rabbits, all with individual personalities. The society aims to educate on diets, enrichment and handling techniques, all part of the process for responsible pet ownership.

One of the rabbits, Rose, has been at the sanctuary longer than any other animal in the charity’s care, arriving in May 2012. Nick has also been with the Society since 2012. Both are playful and sweet natured but have struggled to get on with other rabbits so would be best rehomed as indoor bunnies.

Titch, Giz and Dusty were born at the society.

Their mum was brought in when she was pregnant, and together the family were raised in foster care until they were old enough to find new homes. The mum has found new owners now but the three babies, now six months old, are yet to find a home.

Natasha Woest, manager, said: “Animal welfare is key. We want to make sure that a potential owner can spot ailments and detect signs of ill health. It’s difficult to do so that’s why we want to educate people.”

At the Society for Abandoned Animals, the staff and volunteers work hard to find new permanent homes for these unwanted rabbits, carefully observing the personality of every bunny in their care, but sometimes it can be far too long before a rabbit finds a new family.

Natasha added: “It’s difficult to find the right home for each rabbit as they have different personalities. For example, if the rabbit is nervous or it hadn’t been handled a lot, we wouldn’t rehome it with anyone who had a child.

“At the end of the day, we want to encourage people to rescue these rabbits instead of simply going out and buying one.”

Rabbit Care Day runs between noon and 4pm and admission is £1 adults, 50p kids. Refreshments are available. For more information ring 0161 973 5318.