A PET rabbit is for life and not just for Easter, according to a bunny lover from Bolton.

Vanessa Browne is running a campaign to stop people impulse buying rabbits this Easter—and calling for them to buy a chocolate rabbit instead.

Mrs Browne, of Berwyn Close, Horwich, said she wants more people to be aware of rabbit welfare through the campaign, called “Make Mine Chocolate.”

The mum-of-two, aged 49, said: “If you are thinking of getting a rabbit it’s important that you are clued up about their care.

“They are not suitable pets for young children because they don’t like being picked up and cuddled. But many parents buy rabbits for their children but then the children end up losing interest in them and the parents end up having to care for them.”

In 2010, approximately 67,000 rabbits went through animal rescue centres according to the Rabbit Welfare Association.

And from 2009 and 2010, 60 per cent of pet rabbits were given up in the first year of ownership.

Mrs Browne, who has rescued five rabbits, said: “We are encouraging people to be more responsible when getting a rabbit. They need space and stimulation and not to be left sitting in a small hutch.

“Rabbits are also very sociable animals so they need to be kept in a pair.

“If you do want a rabbit, I would recommend rescuing a pair because they will be neutered and vaccinated.”

Mrs Browne’s love of rabbits started when she got one for daughter Louise.

But it was not until the rabbit started developing behavioural problems that Mrs Browne learned about her pet’s complex needs.

A spokesman for the RSPCA said: “Anyone thinking of getting rabbits should first carefully decide whether they have the time, money and space to look after these animals properly for the whole of their lives.