Giant rabbits that were bred for meat and weighed same as a dog rescued by RSPCA
In a heartwarming yet sobering rescue operation, the RSPCA saved 42 Flemish giant rabbits from an overcrowded allotment in Ashington, Northumberland, in July 2022.
These rabbits, some weighing as much as a medium-sized dog, were being bred for their meat in conditions that were nothing short of dreadful.
Now, they’re on a journey to find loving homes, and their story sheds light on the challenges of animal welfare in tough times.
A Grim Discovery
The rabbits were found confined to small, dirty hutches on an allotment, left to breed uncontrollably.
RSPCA inspector Trevor Walker, who helped lead the rescue over several days, described the conditions as “cramped and dirty,” particularly harsh during the hot summer weather.
The largest rabbit tipped the scales at over 8kg—comparable to a Jack Russell Terrier or King Charles Spaniel—with ears stretching an impressive seven inches long.
It’s hard to imagine these gentle giants enduring such neglect, but that’s exactly what the RSPCA team encountered.
The Flemish Giant Breed
Flemish giant rabbits, originating from Belgium, are among the largest rabbit breeds in the world.
They can grow up to 2.5 feet long and weigh between 6 to 10 kilograms, making them a striking presence in any home.
Known for their docile temperament and striking appearance, they’ve become popular pets for those willing to take on the responsibility.
However, their size demands ample space, a proper diet, and knowledgeable care.
Historically bred for fur and meat, some still face this fate, as was likely the case in Ashington, raising ethical concerns about breeding practices when welfare is compromised.
A Complex Rescue Operation
The rescue wasn’t a simple one-day job. Over several days, RSPCA officers carefully extracted each rabbit from their cramped quarters.
Tragically, one rabbit had to be put to sleep due to a severe eye infection, a stark reminder of the urgency of the situation.
The remaining 42 were found to be in relatively good health, though some needed medication for minor ailments.
With RSPCA shelters already stretched thin, the rabbits were distributed across various centers, branches, and even taken in by inspectors due to space shortages.
Rehoming Efforts
At RSPCA Northumberland West Branch, rehoming coordinator John Billany and his team took in 11 rabbits, mostly females.
Four are still waiting for their forever homes: two young ones and two adults. Billany emphasized the importance of finding the right owners: “They are a big breed, so they’re probably suited to more experienced rabbit owners who have had giants before.
They’re nice rabbits, but they’re just big, and potential owners need to know what they’re doing and how to meet their needs.”
| Rabbit Name | Age | Weight | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bronco | 3-4 months | Not specified | Northumberland West | Extremely friendly, loves treats |
| Bucks | 3-4 months | Not specified | Northumberland West | Well-handled, playful |
| Cookie Crisp | Not specified | 4kg | Great Ayton | Inquisitive, loves exploring and playing |
Among the rabbits still seeking homes are Bronco and Bucks, both around three to four months old.
The Northumberland West Branch describes them as “extremely friendly and well-handled,” always eager to scamper over for a tasty treat.
Over at RSPCA Great Ayton, Cookie Crisp, a 4kg “big boy,” is winning hearts with his inquisitive nature and love for play.
A branch spokesperson noted, “He’s really starting to show the affectionate side of his personality and is starting to come over to us for treats and head scratching.”
These rabbits aren’t just big in size—they’ve got personalities to match.
A Growing Crisis
This rescue is part of a larger, troubling trend. The RSPCA has reported a significant surge in unwanted rabbits, with many being abandoned or surrendered due to the cost of living crisis.
This has put immense pressure on the charity’s resources, with animal centers often at capacity. Inspector Walker noted, “Sadly, rabbits are becoming an increasing problem across the RSPCA as we are seeing more and more coming into our care.”
The Ashington case is just one example of the challenges faced by animal welfare organizations as they work to rescue and rehome animals bred in poor conditions.
Ethical Questions
The RSPCA believes these rabbits were bred for the meat trade, a practice that, while legal, raises serious ethical questions when animals are kept in substandard conditions.
Overcrowded hutches, uncontrolled breeding, and neglect—it’s a tough pill to swallow.
These are living creatures, not commodities, and their treatment in Ashington feels like a step backward in animal welfare.
It’s a reminder that while some see rabbits as food, others see them as companions deserving of love and care.
The contrast is stark, and it’s hard not to feel a pang of frustration at the thought of these gentle giants facing such a fate.
The Adoptober Campaign
The timing of this rescue aligns with the RSPCA’s Adoptober campaign, an annual initiative to encourage people to adopt rather than buy pets.
With shelters overflowing, the campaign is more critical than ever.
Adopting a rabbit like Bronco, Bucks, or Cookie Crisp not only gives them a second chance but also frees up space for other animals in need.
It’s a small act that can make a big difference, and honestly, who wouldn’t want a giant bunny hopping around their home? These rabbits are ready to bring joy to the right owners—ones who can provide the space and care they deserve.
How to Get Involved
If you’re ready to welcome one of these Flemish giants into your life, you can contact RSPCA Northumberland West Branch at 07872 041733 or 07519 876 789, or reach out to RSPCA Great Ayton at 0300 123 0743.
All rabbits will be neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated before adoption, ensuring they’re ready for their new homes.
You can also visit the RSPCA’s Find A Pet page for more information on available animals: RSPCA Find A Pet.
A Second Chance
It’s truly heartening to see these magnificent creatures given a shot at a better life.
Rabbits, often overlooked as pets, can be incredibly rewarding companions, especially Flemish giants with their impressive size and gentle demeanor.
But let’s be real—caring for a rabbit that’s as big as a small dog isn’t a walk in the park.
It takes commitment, space, and a bit of know-how. Still, the reward of seeing a bunny like Cookie Crisp hop over for a head scratch makes it all worthwhile.
This rescue isn’t just about saving 42 rabbits; it’s about shining a light on the broader issues of animal breeding, welfare, and the pressures faced by organizations like the RSPCA.
It’s a call to action for all of us to think more carefully about where our pets—and even our food—come from.
As John Billany put it, “They’re nice rabbits, but they’re just big, and potential owners need to know what they’re doing.”
These rabbits deserve homes where they’re valued for who they are, not what they can provide. And that’s a goal worth hopping toward.
