Eleven baby bunnies and their parents were found “freezing” and in a state of “sheer distress” after being left to die by a roadside.
A passerby discovered the abandoned fluffle (group of bunnies) in a cardboard box while out walking their dog on January 4.
Six of the baby bunnies were less than a week old and hadn’t even grown fur yet.
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The USPCA, which is now looking after the furry family, say they are “shocked” by the incident on Green Road, Camlough just days after Christmas.
Colleen Tinnelly, USPCA Chief Operating Officer said: “We horrified and appalled that someone abandoned these poor defenceless animals. They were essentially left to die at the roadside.
“The USPCA condemns the actions of the individual responsible for the abandonment.”
“Once again, we have been reminded that there are cruel, heartless individuals out there who do not care for the welfare of their animals. We plea with the public to do their research before getting a pet to prevent cases like this happening. Each animal be it a dog, bunny or cat has its own set of needs and unless you are able to meet these needs and give the animal the best life possible, do not consider getting a pet.
“Thankfully, following examination from our veterinary team, the bunnies are in good health. However, this could have been a very different story if they had not been found and brought into our care.
“We commend and thank the member of the public for bringing them into our care, rather than leaving them to a slow and agonising death at the side of the road.”
The charity says without intervention the mum, dad and their 11 babies would have certainly died.
Anyone with concerns about animals in their area can contact USPCA on 028 3025 1000 or by emailing enquiries@uspca.co.uk.
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