When Chula Vista police officers responded to a call about a disturbance at a local park last week, they were prepared for trouble.
What they weren’t expecting? A group of 14 fluffy “suspects” hopping around the grass.
Instead of rowdy teens or noisy crowds, the officers discovered 14 domesticated rabbits — 11 adults and 3 babies — left behind with no owner in sight.
The rabbits had clearly been abandoned, a dangerous fate for domestic bunnies who don’t have the camouflage or survival skills of their wild cousins. Luckily, the officers acted quickly, carefully rounding up every last one and transporting them to the Chula Vista Animal Care Facility.
It’s all too common for people to abandoned their unwanted pet rabbits outside — but these adorable critters were lucky enough to be found before anything bad could happen to them.
Shelter staff were thrilled to welcome the unexpected arrivals. “Unfortunately, some people get rabbits before they do their research and get quickly overwhelmed,” said Linda Septon, rescue coordinator at the facility. “They see wild rabbits in parks and think this may be their solution by letting their pets loose. But domestic rabbits can’t survive that way.”
Now safe, the rabbits are enjoying roomy pens filled with fresh hay, toys, and cozy hiding boxes. Volunteers are already working on socializing and litter box training them, preparing the bunnies for future homes.
To celebrate their second chance, staff gave the group fairy-tale inspired names — a fitting tribute, since each of them is on their way to a much happier ending. The adult rabbits will be spayed or neutered, microchipped, and made available for adoption.
Thanks to quick-thinking officers and compassionate shelter workers, these abandoned pets will never have to fend for themselves again.
And judging by their relaxed, curious faces, they already seem to know they’re safe.
If you’re interested in adopting one or more of these rabbits, you can fill out an adoption application here.
