Adopting a rescued rabbit or rodent isn’t just about finding a pet—it’s about transforming a life in the most profound way. For animals who’ve been abandoned, neglected, or surrendered, adoption means more than a new home. It’s their second chance to feel safe, to experience love, and to truly be happy for the first time. These animals have known hardship, yet their resilience and ability to trust again are nothing short of inspiring.
But adoption isn’t just about helping them—it transforms your life, too. These small companions bring joy, laughter, and unconditional love into your home. Their quirky personalities, playful antics, and gentle affection make every moment special. You become their hero—but in return, they bring happiness and love in ways you never imagined.
The Hidden Crisis: Why So Many Rabbits & Rodents Need Homes
Most people don’t realise just how many rabbits and rodents end up in rescues. Around 67,000 rabbits enter rescues across the UK every year, and this number has remained unchanged not because fewer animals are in need, but because rescues are already at full capacity. Since the pandemic, the demand for rescue spaces has doubled or even tripled, with many rescues simply unable to take in any more.
Yet, so many people don’t even know these animals are in rescues. When they think of adopting a pet, they picture dogs and cats, unaware that rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small furries are also waiting desperately for homes. And when they do consider adopting, they often believe harmful myths that put them off.
The Myth of the ‘Broken’ Rescue Animal
One of the biggest misconceptions about adoption is that rescue animals must be damaged or problematic. The truth? The vast majority of rabbits and rodents in rescues are there through no fault of their own.
Most were surrendered simply because someone lost interest. Many were bought for children who grew bored, leaving the animals unwanted. Others ended up in rescues because of pet shop mistakes—mis-sexed animals leading to unexpected litters or females sold already pregnant.
These animals are not ‘second-hand’ or ‘broken’. They are loving, happy, healthy pets, just waiting for someone to see their worth and offer them the love they deserve.
“Why Do Rescues Vet Adopters?” – Understanding Home Checks
One of the biggest concerns people have about adopting is the vetting process. Unlike a pet shop, where you can walk in and leave with an animal the same day, rescues carry out home checks and ask questions before rehoming. But why?
Because rabbits and rodents have complex needs that the pet trade ignores. Many people still believe these animals can live in tiny cages, eat the wrong diets, or the misconception that social species can live happily alone. They suffer just as deeply as dogs and cats when their needs aren’t met—they just can’t express it in ways we immediately recognise.
Rescues are welfare-focused, not profit-driven. They ensure that every animal is placed in a home that truly understands their needs. The goal isn’t to make adoption difficult—it’s to make sure the animal finally gets the life they deserve.
The Unseen Benefits of Adopting
Adopting from a rescue means more than just giving an animal a home. It comes with incredible benefits for both you and your new pet:
✅ Health & Vet Care – Reputable rescues ensure rabbits are neutered (£100-£250) and vaccinated (£70-£150) before adoption, saving adopters a huge amount in vet costs.
✅ Expert Pairing & Behavioural Support – Rescues help match bonded pairs and provide guidance on ensuring a harmonious home.
✅ A Lifelong Safety Net – If your circumstances ever change, rescues take their animals back, ensuring they never face abandonment again.
✅ Accurate, Up-to-Date Welfare Advice – Unlike pet shops, rescues follow modern research, ensuring you receive proper guidance for your pet’s care.
Adoption Saves Two Lives, Not Just One
When you adopt, you’re not just changing one life—you’re saving two. Every time an animal finds a home, a space opens up for another in need. Adoption creates a ripple effect of kindness and hope, giving more animals the chance to find love.
Many adopters say that their rescue pet has changed their life. Whether it’s the first time a once-nervous rabbit trusts enough to flop beside them, or the moment a timid guinea pig comes to the front of their enclosure to greet their new human, adoption is a journey filled with love, trust, and second chances.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Right now, thousands of rabbits and rodents are waiting in rescues across the UK, each hoping for a loving home like yours. Your perfect match is out there—waiting for you to find them. But even if you’re not in a position to adopt, you can still make a huge impact.
🐰 Be Their Voice – Many people don’t realise that rabbits and rodents are in rescue. Help change that by spreading the word! If you hear of someone looking to welcome small pets into their home, encourage them to check rescues first.
📢 Share & Inspire – Raising awareness is powerful. Share this blog on your social media to help more animals find loving homes. Every post, every share, and every conversation makes a difference.
🖼️ Download & Display – Show your support with our ‘Adopt, Don’t Shop’ profile picture and social media posts for both Facebook and Instagram. By displaying it, you’re helping shine a light on the thousands of rabbits and rodents still waiting for their second chance.
If you’re ready to open your heart and home, start your adoption journey here today—because the best love stories begin with a second chance.
If this article has been helpful, please consider supporting our work at Nibbles with a donation. As West Wales' only specialist rabbit and rodent rescue, we rely entirely on the kindness and generosity of people like you to keep our centre running. Every donation, no matter the size, helps us provide care, shelter, and second chances to rabbits and rodents in need. Together, we can continue making a difference—one life at a time.
Thank you for your support! 🐾💖
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