Durbanville has sadly become a known dumping ground for domestic rabbits.
In recent weeks, more than 24 abandoned bunnies have had to be rescued, sterilised, and cared for to prevent further breeding.
Why this matters:
- Pet rabbits are domesticated animals, not wild. They cannot survive on their own.
- Many are run over by cars in neighbourhood streets.
- They are easy prey and are attacked or eaten by dogs, cats, birds – and even people.
- Without care, they get sick and die from untreated illnesses.
- They suffer in extreme heat or cold, without proper water, food and shelter.
- Some people view them as pests, leading to them being poisoned or even shot.
Dumping a rabbit is not only cruel, it creates an endless cycle of suffering, breeding, and more abandoned animals.
What you can do instead:
- Adopt, don’t shop – and always sterilise your pets.
- If you can no longer care for your bunny, please contact a rabbit rescue or animal shelter as a last resort.
- Rehome responsibly: post on South African bunny groups and rescue networks like Bunny Huggers SA and Bunnies South Africa.
Abandoning your pet is not only cruel, it is illegal under the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962.
Let’s protect our bunnies and stop the cycle of dumping in Durbanville.
For emergencies or to seek help with rehoming by contacting Happy Hoppers Bun Club on WhatsApp at 067 409 9900 or email happyhoppers.bunclub@gmail.com
Esther, Email
