Sheila Stewart, founder of Capricorn Animal Rescue, Padeswood, says she is inundated at this time of year with abandoned 'Easter bunnies', and is urging people to think carefully before buying any seasonal additions to their family.

She said: "We are approaching Easter time, when there are lots of baby rabbits and guinea pigs on sale at pet shops, but I must appeal to anyone who is thinking of buying a rabbit or guinea pig to please think about it, learn what the animal will need and how long it is expected to live and be cared for.

"Buy a large hutch and run before buying your rabbit or guinea pig and don't buy one just because your child wants to cuddle it – emotive buying is not a good idea. Adults in the home should also be responsible for any pets, as the welfare of an animal should not just be left to a child.

"We see regular cases of neglect of rabbits and guinea pigs – these animals are the silent majority of pets. They are left in tiny, dirty hutches when the children lose interest, only fed when someone remembers, then they are handed on to anyone who seems to want them, on a whim, or handed in to animal rescue centres, or dumped. Please, think before buying. Think long and hard and do your research on the pet in mind."

If you have a rabbit that is aged over nine months and has not been vaccinated, March is vaccination month at a number of veterinary surgeries across the county. Contact your local surgery for details of the scheme.