Rabbit Advocacy Animal Matters

Carmina Gooch writes to BC SPCA

September 24, 2008 

Re: European Rabbit Issues 

Hi Sara: 

In 2007 the BC Government conducted a review of the Wildlife Act, and while there were a number of amendments, there were none specific to rabbits, which are classified as a an "alien invasive species."  Did the BC SPCA ask to have this designation amended?  These animals are household pets, like cats and dogs, yet cats and dogs are not listed as invasive species when abandoned into the environment. 

Therefore, I don't see that the BC SPCA, as an animal welfare agency, would condone the shooting of Kelowna's feral rabbits, regardless of whether some would consider them "pests."  Especially, too, as TRACS has been humanely trapping them, and having them sterilized and moved to safety.  In a June 6th story from Castanet you were quoted as saying that "the BC SPCA is prepared to accept the euthanizing of rabbits as long as it's done humanely--the same way people's pets are put down."    

In another story from Castanet, August 13th, it was stated that the BC SPCA "doesn't have a problem with the three methods proposed" in dealing with the rabbits, one of which is the use of an air-rifle.  As concerned animal welfarists and the public pointed out, what if a rabbit doesn't die right away and what if a lactating mother is shot to death, leaving her babies to starve?  Wouldn't this contravene the Cruelty Act? 

Lastly, as the BC SPCA has a partnership with Petcetera, why is this retailer still selling intact baby rabbits a full year after saying sales would stop in all BC municipalities?  

I look forward to your response to the above rabbit matters.