Introduction

In a concerning trend, a rabbit rescue group in Singapore is urgently appealing to residents for assistance following the rescue of a sixth rabbit from the Zhenghua Nature Park area.

Initial Rescues and Appeals

On January 4, Bunny Wonderland, a prominent animal welfare organization boasting around 20,000 followers on Facebook, made a heartfelt appeal on social media after receiving reports of abandoned rabbits near Block 468 Segar Road. Alarmingly, on that same day, volunteers observed three more abandoned rabbits in the vicinity.

Continued Efforts

By January 5, Bunny Wonderland expressed its distress, revealing that it was still searching for two remaining rabbits—one white and one brown. Despite a dedicated group of rabbit owners and volunteers scouring the area from 8 AM to noon, including intense afternoon heat, their efforts proved fruitless. Recognizing the animals' natural instincts to seek shelter from the sweltering temperatures, the group planned to resume the search later in the evening.

Call for Community Vigilance

Bunny Wonderland encourages the community to remain vigilant, highlighting optimal search times during rabbit activity: mornings between 8 to 10 AM and evenings from 6 to 10 PM. This initiative comes as a response to a rising wave of pet abandonment. Since mid-December, at least six rabbits have been rescued in the area, with five being saved by Bunny Wonderland and one by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).

Distress Over Pet Dumping

“It’s distressing that this park has seemingly turned into a dumping ground for unwanted pets,” Bunny Wonderland lamented in their post. In an effort to combat this trend, they are urging local residents to report any sightings of rabbits and to remain aware of unusual activities in the area. “Together, we can stop pet abandonment and ensure these animals receive the care they truly deserve,” the group stated.

Community Response

Showcasing the community's dedication to animal welfare, a vigilante animal lover who assisted in rescuing the fifth rabbit has reported the incident to the National Parks Board’s Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS). Lynne Tan, a passionate volunteer from Bunny Wonderland, has proposed the installation of temporary signage in the park to inform the public that abandoning pets is a criminal offense. AVS has yet to respond to her suggestion.

Investigation and Reporting

Regarding the alarming trend, Ms. Jessica Kwok, NParks’ Group Director of Enforcement & Investigation, confirmed that NParks is actively looking into the matter. “We take all reports on potential animal abandonment seriously,” she stated, ensuring community members that thorough investigations will be conducted into reported cases, leading to appropriate enforcement actions where violations occur.

Call to Action

Residents witnessing animal cruelty or abandonment are urged to report their observations to NParks or submit evidence through the official website. They can also reach out for assistance via the Animal Response Centre at 1800-476-1600.

Conclusion

As this story unfolds, it underscores the crucial need for community vigilance and responsibility in animal welfare. Together, we can create a safer environment for all animals and put an end to the heartbreaking cycle of pet abandonment!