Scottish SPCA

Rabbit dumped in horrific state

The Scottish SPCA is appealing for information after a rabbit was found in a horrific condition at the side of a road in East Lothian.

A member of the public spotted the terrified pet on Wednesday evening (1 February) on the B6414 Elphinstone Road and took him home before calling us for help.

The male crossbreed was suffering from a severe case of ear mites which had spread to his eyes, face and legs. He was rushed to a vet for treatment and is now in the care of our Edinburgh and Lothians Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Balerno, where staff have named him Romeo.

Animal Rescue Officer Mairi Stewart said, “Poor Romeo was in a terrible state and there is no doubt he would have been in pain and distress for some time before he was dumped.

“Ear mites are very simply treated and whoever owned Romeo has allowed his condition to develop to a severe stage where it would have been obvious that he was in need of urgent veterinary treatment.

“The person responsible for dumping him has been particularly cruel by leaving him in such a vulnerable position. He had no shelter and was left beside a busy road in the freezing cold where he could easily have been hit by a car.

“Despite his ordeal, Romeo has a very friendly nature and it’s likely he has been someone’s pet. We’re appealing to the public for information as we really need to find the person responsible for this cruel act.

“Once Romeo has fully recovered we’ll be looking to find him a loving new home.”

Anyone found guilty of abandoning an animal can expect to be banned from keeping animals for a fixed period or life.

We are urging anyone with information to call our Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.

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