32 rabbits were recently dumped at Sydney Olympic Park, exposing these domestic animals to danger and starvation.
Here is a reminder that it is cruel and illegal to dump any animal.
Under the NSW Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979, it is illegal to dump or abandon your animal, as most will not survive in the wild. Domesticated animals are naive to the dangers in the new environment. Many starve to death, freeze to death, suffer from disease or illness, come into fatal contact with vehicles or are predated on by foxes.
For their welfare, Sydney Olympic Park strives to remove dumped animals found on site, taking them to an appropriate care facility for a chance at being rehomed. Removal is also important as dumped animals can inflict damage on native fauna and their habitat. From the introduction of disease to the increased competition for food and shelter, dumped domesticated animals and native wildlife do not mix.
Unfortunately, Sydney Olympic Park has dealt with numerous dumped animals overtime, from rabbits, ducklings, guinea pigs, mice, chickens, ducks, cats to pythons. Dumped pets such as cats can eventually become feral and pose a serious threat to native animals through predation. Feral cats are listed as a key threatening process under commonwealth legislation and require removal from conservation areas.
The removal of abandoned animals from the Park is considered a rescue mission, for dumped animals and native animals alike. 18 rabbits have been rescued and are now with the RSPCA for rehoming, unfortunately 14 were found dead.
If you need assistance with rehoming pets, please contact reputable organisations such as the RSPCA, Animal Welfare League NSW and Sydney Dogs and Cats Home.
