The lion head rabbit was in a poor state, underweight and covered in urine stains.
The blue-eyed rabbit was spotted by a member of the public in a cardboard box on a bench in Sefton Park on Sunday, January 5, who then contacted the RSPCA for help.
Animal Collection Officer (ACO) Heather Cook collected the rabbit, which was microchipped with the name Barney, to the RSPCA Manchester and Salford branch for care. Unfortunately, the details on the microchip were not up-to-date and although the rabbit had been named Barney, she is actually a female rabbit.
ACO Heather said: “This poor rabbit was abandoned in a park on a cold January day so she was very lucky that someone found her when she did. She is now being cared for by the branch who have renamed her Grace.
“Sadly, we do see rabbits abandoned like this with around 1,000 rabbits dumped every year. Rabbits are arguably one of the most neglected pets in Britain despite being much-loved by many.
“It could be a lack of knowledge about their needs which leads to so many rabbits being abandoned and coming into our care. Bunnies may look cute but their needs are very complex and it’s important to do lots of research before buying or adopting pet rabbits to ensure that you can meet all their needs.
“We understand that people’s circumstances can change which may mean they can no longer care for their pets but there is never an excuse to abandon an animal like this. I am now appealing for anyone with information to please contact us on the inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.”
Susie Hughes, manager at the RSPCA Manchester and Salford branch, said: “Poor Grace is in quite a shocking condition. She has little muscle mass along her back and her spine and her hip bones are protruding. She’s clearly been sat in her own urine over a prolonged period of time as her paws and belly are stained yellow.
“We don’t know if an underlying health problem is the cause of her weight or if she was underfed but either way this poor bunny has been through a horrible time.”
If an owner is not found, after veterinary and care and some TLC, Grace will later be rehomed.
To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit our website.