Burgess Pet Care, the organisers behind the Rabbit Awareness Week (RAW), are celebrating the success of this year’s neutering themed campaign, with 98% of veterinary professionals surveyed stating that RAW continues to have a positive impact on the care of rabbits in the UK.
The survey, which was conducted by Burgess among the UK’s veterinary community following RAW, which took place from 26-30 June, also found that,
- 87% promoted RAW in their practice, including display corners, MOT appointments and competitions
- 72% downloaded a RAW pack
- 51% ran a RAW social media campaign
- 87% believe rabbit welfare is improving in the UK
The theme of this year’s RAW – Neutering: Protect and Prevent – attracted over 3,500 campaign pack downloads from the Rabbit Awareness Week website – the highest number to date.
Dr Suzanne Moyes, Deputy MD and in-house vet at Burgess Pet Care, said: “We are absolutely delighted with the response to Rabbit Awareness Week. Record numbers of veterinary professionals and vets’ practices supported this year’s important campaign, which was all about raising awareness of the many benefits of neutering pet rabbits.
“Our pre-RAW survey found that over a third of owners said rabbits do not need spaying or castrating – despite the many issues associated with un-neutered rabbits, including approximately 80% of unneutered female rabbits developing uterine tumours after the age of three years, often with fatal consequences. It’s really encouraging that a record number of rabbit owners engaged with RAW this year, with over half of those surveyed saying they downloaded a RAW digital pack.
“Whether you downloaded a vets’ pack, ran RAW initiatives in your vets’ practice, or promoted RAW to your local community, we are grateful for your support in helping us to improve rabbits’ health and wellbeing.
“Working alongside RAW’s charity partners the RSPCA, Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWAF), Woodgreen Pets Charity, Blue Cross and Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare, we will continue to help make a positive difference to the lives of these intelligent, social animals.”
RAW will return for its 18th year in 2024 and details of how to get involved will be posted on the website, where individuals and practices can sign up for the RAW vet pack download reminder.
