THE RSPCA saw an increase in demand for pets during 2020 - but today the charity is highlighting those animals in Cumbria that need special care and attention due to their difficult start in life.

The charity saw a 101 per cent increase in searches for small companion animals - rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters - on its website’s ‘FindAPet’ search following the first year of the pandemic (March 2020 number 43,758 compared to Jan 2021 number 87,974.)

Despite this increase in demand there are still some rabbits and small furries waiting to find their perfect home in Cumbria.

RSPCA rabbit welfare expert Dr Jane Tyson said: “Rabbits and small furries are very misunderstood, they have complex needs and need a lot of care and attention. However, they are also very rewarding pets and given the right housing, socialising, diet and care they can become much loved members of the family.

“Adopting may take more time than just buying but it is more rewarding as often you are rescuing that animal from a history of mistreatment of neglect. It also means we are freeing up space in our centres so more needy animals can move in to receive the care they need.

“We have lots of information on our website to help support new owners and we also have the newly created The Good Practice Code for the Welfare of Rabbits.

“It’s really positive to see so many people are now searching for rescue animals as they become more aware this is an option and hopefully we can help find those less popular animals in our care the right home too.”

Onyx, Mason and Dash - three neutered male guinea pigs who are looking for their forever home - are currently in the care of the RSPCA Furness and Barrow branch after being rescued by an inspector at the beginning of July. They came from a multi-animal home with lots of piggies but these three boys have stayed together as they get along so well.

They are looking for a home without any other guinea pigs as they want to be the centre of attention.

For more information or to rehome Onyx, Mason and Dash please contact the RSPCA Furness and Barrow branch on fandbrspca@talktalk.net