It’s not Easter but abandoned rabbits are showing up everywhere in New Orleans and Jefferson Parish. In the last four months, Humane Society of Louisiana Director Jeff Dorson says nearly 60 bunnies have been found in city parks but they normally cannot survive in the wild for long.
“They suffer from loss of food source and water. They get sick. Predation. They have coyotes and hawks take them away. They’re giving birth. They’re being hit by cars and its becoming more increasingly a problem.”
Dorson says the state law has a specific statue that prohibits the abandonment of any living creature including rabbits. He says anyone caught abandoning a bunny can face…
“Up to six months and or a thousand dollars. Probation, restitution, court cost, fines and penalties.”
Dorson encourages owners to contact animal shelters and rescue groups to help rehome an unwanted animal. If you see rabbits roaming around a park or neighborhood, he says it’s typically safe to rescue the animal.
“It can be done without too much of a fuss. But you do need gloves, maybe a net, and maybe a dog carrier.”
Individuals can also contact the HSLA, Jefferson Protection Welfare Services or 311 in Orleans Parish to rescue or rehome abandoned rabbits.
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