The deadly Rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) could be appearing in the Lower Mainland soon, according to a Richmond-based rescue.
Rabbitats issued a warning on Wednesday after the virus hit both Washington State and Alberta.
“The virus is only 80 miles away as the crow flies,” said Rabbitats founder Sorelle Saidman, “or in this case, eagles.”
Alarm bells are ringing in B.C. since most hay fed to rabbits comes from both places. There is also a risk of travellers carrying the virus on their shoes, clothes or tires after picking it up from the grass.
“Large populations of ferals live on B.C.’s Lower Mainland, making the virus’ spread more likely,” Saidman explained.
She added that numbers have been growing in almost all municipalities as people “with few alternatives” abandon their pets.
Colonies of loose domestic rabbits in Washington State’s Whidbey Island started dying almost overnight at the end of June. According to Rabbitats, residents reported seeing “horrifying” scenes of rabbits convulsing and dying in front of them.
The cause? RHDV.
“The version of the virus coming up from the South West has been particularly devastating as it kills both wild and domestic rabbits,” said Saidman.
“When it first hit this area, it only affected domestic European rabbits.”
RHDV affects house pets, farm rabbits, cottontails and hares, and does not affect other animals. It is not transmittable to humans.
The only protection against the virus is the vaccine.
Pet owners interested in getting their rabbits vaccinated can check out Rabbitats’ low-cost vaccination clinic at Langley’s Apex Animal Hospital on Sunday, July 23. More clinics are being planned for Richmond and East Vancouver’s Bunny Cafe.
Reservations can either be made online or by email to [email protected]. Appointments are by donation with a suggested range between $35 and $45.
All proceeds go to Rabbitats.
“Financially-challenged guardians can contribute what they can while we hope others may donate more,” said Saidman.
“Our key concern is getting as many rabbits vaccinated as possible.”
