Call for Community Vigilance

In a concerning trend, a local animal welfare group in Singapore is urging residents of the Zhenghua Nature Park area to be vigilant about abandoned rabbits. Bunny Wonderland, a prominent rescue organization with a noteworthy following of 20,000 on Facebook, reported that they have rescued their sixth rabbit since December, highlighting a worrying pattern of pet abandonment in the region.

Recent Rabbit Rescues

On January 4, the group posted on social media about a rabbit found abandoned near Block 468 Segar Road. That same day, they also received reports of three additional rabbits sighted nearby. The following evening, Bunny Wonderland reported that they were still searching for two rabbits, one white and one brown, prompting the group to mobilize volunteers for an organized search.

Challenges in Rescue Efforts

Despite a dedicated team comprising rabbit enthusiasts and volunteers who scoured the area on January 5 from 8 AM to noon, the hot weather hampered their efforts, with the rabbits remaining elusive. The rescue group indicated they would resume the search later in the evening when temperatures cooled and the rabbits would be more active.

Rising Concern and Community Involvement

Bunny Wonderland cautioned that at least six rabbits have been rescued from this area since December. Of those, five were saved by their team, while one was taken in by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). This alarming situation led Bunny Wonderland to declare the park a “dumping ground for unwanted pets,” urging locals to assist in rescue efforts.

The Role of Residents in Rescue Efforts

“Residents play a critical role in this mission,” the group stated, encouraging anyone who spots a rabbit or any signs of distress among the animals to reach out immediately. Their collective vigilance is seen as vital to counteract the trend of pet abandonment and ensure that these animals receive the necessary care.

Proposed Solutions by Volunteers

Lynee Tan, a volunteer with Bunny Wonderland, proposed that the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS) install temporary signage in the park to inform potential offenders that abandoning pets is illegal. She is awaiting a response from AVS regarding her suggestion.

Hope for the Future

As the search continues, Bunny Wonderland remains hopeful that with community support, more abandoned rabbits can be rescued and rehabilitated, fostering a more compassionate environment for animals in Singapore. The need for responsible pet ownership has never been more urgent, as the plight of these abandoned animals underscores a significant social issue.

Call to Action for Residents

Residents are reminded that they can help turn the tide against pet abandonment by being active observers and compassionate caretakers within their community.