A trader in the United Kingdom has received fines after he attempted to sell a rabbit with severely overgrown teeth. 65-year-old David Shipton admitted fault when it came to causing suffering to the animal.
Rabbits are adorable but it's not a pretty sight when they have overgrown teeth.
A trader in the United Kingdom has received fines after he attempted to sell a rabbit with severely overgrown teeth. 65-year-old David Shipton admitted fault when it came to causing suffering to the animal.
The rabbit’s long teeth prohibited the creature from eating normally. Shipton reportedly failed to get help for the rabbit to ensure its needs were met.
Bunny teeth grow throughout the animal’s life but are commonly worn down by their eating practices. However, due to infection, facial trauma or congenital disorders, the teeth can become overgrown.
Trading standards authorities noticed the bunny for sale at the Stratford Livestock Market late last year. A veterinarian concluded the bunny was dangerously thin.
A trading standards spokesperson stated “In most cases we can deal with problems with guidance and advice but where traders consistently fail to take their responsibilities seriously, we have the option to take legal action."
