Seven rabbits discovered abandoned in a small crate behind a housing estate have now all found loving forever homes, thanks to national pet charity Blue Cross.

Last spring, a member of the public came across a discarded cage. On closer inspection, they found seven rabbits huddled inside. The animals were taken to the charity’s rehoming unit in Exeter, where they were immediately placed in the care of a fosterer, contributing to a happy ending for rabbits.

Asha Rowlinson, Assistant Manager at Blue Cross Devon and fosterer, said: “I was more than happy to give these rabbits a temporary home, while our team worked to find them their forever families, creating a happy ending for rabbits.

“The way these rabbits were found is upsetting. The crate wasn’t large enough or equipped for them to display natural rabbit behaviours such as digging or hopping and didn’t provide adequate shelter. When they first arrived, they were clearly not used to positive handling or socialisation with people and generally avoided any interaction.”

The team in Devon named the rabbits – six males and one female – after famous Formula 1 figures: Charles, Carlos, Toto, Lando, Oscar, George and Suzie. They were thought to be around six weeks old. With time, patience and gentle care, the rabbits began to build trust with Asha and her family.

Asha said: “After some time, they became more confident around me, especially after they realised I was the source of their favourite vegetables and greens. Once they became more confident, they would approach me, sniff me, and hop around my legs. Eventually they felt safe enough to take food and treats from my hand.”

All seven rabbits have now been successfully rehomed.

Carlos and Charles were adopted by Alexandra Cross, who said: “They are getting on really well, they seem very comfortable in their new home and are often found flopped on a rug resting after stuffing their faces with hay.

“Both are very inquisitive. Charles is a little bit braver than Carlos as he’s always the first to investigate new people and they’re both very loving towards each other and other people. Very happy bunnies all round!”

While Charles, Carlos and their siblings have found happy endings, the circumstances they were discovered in are far from rare. Blue Cross has reported a rise in pet abandonment in recent years.

Asha added: “We’re facing a growing hidden pet welfare crisis, and sadly we’re seeing a rise in animals being abandoned as people struggle with the pressures of the increased cost of living. We urge anyone who feels they can no longer care for their pet to reach out to Blue Cross for support”.

With increasing pressures on both pets and their owners, Blue Cross is calling on animal lovers to help support its vital work. From donating to sustain rehoming and veterinary services, to fostering, volunteering at pet food banks, or backing welfare campaigns, every contribution helps ensure pets and their people receive the care they need.

Find out more at www.bluecross.org.uk