A pet retailer is reminding people that “rabbits are not just for Easter”, as it stops sales of the animals over the holiday.

Pets Corner, which has a branch in Nags Head Lane, Harold Wood, is once again running its Bunnies Aren’t for Easter campaign, to prevent impulse buys.

Lucy Ross, head of training at the retailer, said: “Every year in the UK, around 35,000 rabbits are handed in to rescue centres, simply because people are not aware of the commitment they are making, or the care a rabbit needs to keep it happy and healthy.”

According to the charity Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund, the rabbit is Britain’s third most popular pet, but still much neglected.

Lucy said: “Rabbits need plenty of space to roam, such as a spacious and secure run, so they can get the necessary exercise – a hutch is simply not enough.

“Many people underestimate this essential requirement as they see rabbits as small animals and therefore think that they need less space.

“Rabbits are also sociable and like fellow bunny company, so they should be housed together rather than alone, otherwise there is a real danger they will become lonely and depressed.

“This means you will be making double the commitment to care for two animals, so you should not only consider space, but also the financial investment involved.

“As rabbits have a life expectancy of up to 15 years, owning one is a long-term commitment and should be considered very carefully.”

Visit petscorner.co.uk/difference.