People in Toronto are abandoning their pet rabbits leaving many up for adoption

Easter is a surprisingly sad time for domestic rabbits in Toronto.

People often adopt them over Easter and give them as gifts, then realize they can't care for them, and either dump them to fend for themselves in the wild or surrender them to shelters.

As a result, organizations like the Toronto Humane Society and Rabbit Rescue see an uptake of rabbit rescues in the spring.

The upside are the rabbits themselves.

The Toronto Humane Society at the corner of Queen and River Streets has almost two rooms full of rabbits ready for adoption, a few who are getting ready for adoption and many currently living with fosters – but all are looking for their forever homes.

Rabbits are adorable pets, full of personality, affection and antics and can be litter box trained. While they can be shy, some are very social.

Meet Orlock, a Holland Lop. Consider which one is the toy?

Orlock is currently available for adoption from the Toronto Humane Society.

This is Alfred who was rescued last week by volunteers from Rabbit Rescue.

Alfred was recently rescued by volunteers from Rabbit Rescue.

The Toronto Humane Society and Rabbit Rescue both have as a great range of breeds, from Lionheads to American Flemish Giants to Mini Rexes and Holland Lops looking for their forever homes.

Prior to considering adoption, you can learn about how to care for a rabbit at Rabbit House Society.

If you've fallen hard for one of these rabbits, you can take advantage of the 50 per cent off adoption fees (listed as $40) by calling 416.392.2273 or emailing adoption@torontohumanesociety.com.