AN animal sanctuary in York has been overrun by dozens of rabbits desperate to find loving new homes.

The staff at the RSPCA Centre in York’s Landing Lane say they have a large number of small animals on their hands and top of their list is rabbits.

Angela Hunter, York branch manager of the RSPCA, say the centre takes in a number of stray and unwanted rabbits each year.

Last year they rescued 68 and have rescued 23 rabbits so far this year with an ever increasing waiting list.

As a result the huts at the centre are “full to bursting”, she said. Some have been at the centre for more than a year.

She said: “We are looking to find homes for those in our care so that we can help the many others that need help.

“Unlike dogs, rabbits do not have a local authority where stray rabbits can be looked after while owners are traced and the branch will never turn away a stray rabbit.

“There are a number of rabbits which have been in the care of the York Animal Home for over 12 months. One of these rabbits looking for a home is called Echo who has been in the care of the York Animal Home for more than two years.

“She is a sweet girl who was brought into the animal home as a stray and sadly they were unable to trace her owner. Echo prefers her own space and would probably be best as an only rabbit.”

Do you know of anyone who you think could provide Echo with the home she is looking for? If you or someone you know wants to rehome a rabbit or a pair, please phone the animal home on 01904 654949 during their opening hours of 11am to 3.30pm Tuesday to Sunday.