Thursday, November 24, 2011

114 Rabbits Seized From Aptos Breeding Facility

By Susanne Brunner



SANTA CRUZ, Calif. - It's been a busy Tuesday for Rabbit Haven volunteers and workers at Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter.  On top of the dozens of animals the shelter already cares for, it brought in some of the 114 rabbits seized from an Aptos breeding facility off Freedom Boulevard on Sunday.
"[The rabbits were] Living in feces and urine, some of the cages were outside with no shelter, so  when it had rained they had filled up with water so the bunnies were wet and cold. No food or water, horrible conditions," said Melanie Sobel with Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter.
The shelter said 2 officers discovered the "horrible conditions" during a routine check.  They cited the owner, and it turns out this isn't the first time he's had animals taken away from his home.  Shelter officials said last year, 40 rabbits were seized for the same conditions. 
Over the last 2 days, shelter staff and volunteers have been cleaning up the rabbits, making sure they get the quality care they need.  Some of the rabbits are pregnant and others need vet care.  It's a task that hasn't been easy, especially during tough times..."  More

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