Some rabbits bought as Easter presents for children are already finding their way to animal rescue centres.

Julie Baxter, chief rabbit fosterer for Anim-Mates, said: “Many of the rabbits we rescue at this time of the year were bought for children, who after the novelty wears off, no longer want to look after them.

“We are trying to dispel the myth that rabbits are ‘good starter pets’ for children. Aside from the fact that children often lose interest, rabbits have very fragile bones - as such, if dropped, even from a low height, the rabbit can easily break it’s bones.

“The average time for a child to become bored with their pet is about six weeks.

“We never rehome a rescued rabbit if it’s going to be a present for a child.”

Anim-Mates is trying to find a home for two Dutch black and white rabbits whose owners felt they no longer had time to look after them.

“Elliot and his sister Oriana are about 12 months old. They are friendly and are used to being picked up.

“We have neutered them, so they can go to one home, where they will need to be bonded, or to separate homes if there is already a neutered rabbit there who wants a companion.

“Without a companion, a rabbit can suffer from boredom, depression and loneliness that can result in aggression, withdrawal and a decline in their health.”

If you could offer Elliot and/or Oriana a new home, call 07958 031884.

Anim-Mates is an animal rescue group serving south-east London run entirely by volunteers.

All the animals are cared for in the homes of fosterers who treat them as their own pets until they are re-homed.

All new homes are vetted.

To see all the animals in the care of Anim-Mates visit the charity’s website www.anim-mates.org.uk