PETS at Home in Oxford is set to stop selling rabbits this Easter in order to teach children about responsible pet ownership.

Customers will not be able to buy or adopt a rabbit between Good Friday and Easter Monday.

Each year, customer interest in rabbits rockets at this time of year due to the holiday’s connection with the Easter Bunny.

This year, to ‘ensure families understand the specific needs of rabbits’, Pets at Home Oxford will instead be hosting free rabbit workshops over the Easter weekend.

The sessions help children understand the welfare needs of rabbits – shelter, food and water, good health, appropriate company and the right living environment – and will help families and potential pet owners to make an informed decision about taking on an animal.

Company CEO Peter Pritchard said: “We pride ourselves on putting pets before profit so we’ve taken the decision not to sell rabbits during the upcoming Easter weekend.

“Our informative workshops help families understand what’s involved in being a responsible rabbit owner. What’s more they’re also a fun and free way for children to get up close and personal with some furry friends during the holidays.”