Placer SPCA asking for help after taking in 100+ rabbits

The Placer County SPCA is asking for emergency help after it took in more than 100 rabbits rescued from a Roseville home. SPCA officials said they initially took in 20 rabbits but the situation escalated and later in the week, animal control officers transported 80 more rabbits from the home to the shelter. Some rabbits are now giving birth to litters of more baby bunnies. Placer SPCA regularly cares for hundreds of animals that have been surrendered or lost, but CEO of Placer SPCA Leilani Fratis said this number of rabbits at one time is overwhelming. "Our facilities aren't designed to house this many rabbits at one time," said Fratis. "We've repurposed a number of rooms into makeshift rescue spaces, and we're stretching our resources beyond capacity." The Placer SPCA veterinary team, led by Dr. Lea Early, chief of veterinary services, has conducted medical exams on all the rescued rabbits. While some were found in good condition, others are battling respiratory infections, open sores and other health issues requiring specialized treatment, according to Fratis. In response to this crisis, Placer SPCA is urgently seeking help from the community. They need: * Veterinarians specializing in rabbits to assist with spaying and neutering. * Experienced foster caregivers to provide temporary homes. * Donations to fund bulk food purchases and ongoing care, including expensive specially compounded antibiotics. Placer SPCA is currently constructing an 8,800 square-foot Veterinary and Foster Care Center. Dr. Dan Hamil, chief of development, said this urgent situation demonstrates why there is such a great need for this new facility. "This critical situation reminds us that our communities need even more medical services for animals. A growing population of people brings a growing population of dogs, cats and other small animals. This new facility will meet a vital need in our community," Hamil said. To provide immediate, lifesaving help for these rabbits, donate at www.placerspca.org/support/donate. For those interested in fostering rabbits, email foster@placerspca.org. Veterinarians specializing in rabbit care are encouraged to contact manager@placerspca.org.