Rosa is one of our long-stay bunnies, and anyone who has met her will tell you the same thing: she is an incredibly sweet and affectionate girl who deserves so much more than the tough hand she has been dealt.
Sadly, Rosa has been struggling with a serious inner ear infection. Despite ongoing treatment, the infection has proven deep-rooted and persistent, and our vets have now advised that she needs major surgery to open up her ear canal. It is a significant operation, but it offers Rosa the best chance of lasting relief from the pain and discomfort she has been living with.
The cost of Rosa’s surgery
Rosa’s fosterer and our wonderful volunteers have already dug deep and donated generously towards her treatment, and we are so grateful for their kindness. But there is still a gap. We need to raise around £800 to £900 to cover the remaining cost of her surgery.
We are fortunate to receive discounted rates from our veterinary practice, but even with that support this is a significant expense for our branch. As a self-funded local charity, we receive no funding from the national RSPCA, so every penny for Rosa’s care has to be raised right here in our community.
How you can help
Every donation, no matter how small, takes Rosa a step closer to the surgery she needs and the chance to live a happier, healthier life free from pain.
If you are able to support Rosa, we would be so grateful. Thank you for helping us give this lovely girl the care she deserves.
Why ear infections are so serious for rabbits
Ear infections in rabbits are more than just an irritation. The inner ear controls balance, so when infection reaches this deep it can cause a head tilt, loss of balance, circling, and a loss of appetite. Earlier warning signs are often subtle: scratching at the ears, shaking the head, holding one ear lower than the other, or a waxy discharge in the ear canal.
Lop-eared rabbits like Rosa are particularly prone to ear problems, as their folded ears restrict airflow and drainage, allowing wax and infection to build up out of sight. When an infection becomes established deep in the ear canal, medication alone often cannot reach it. Surgery to open up the canal is then the only way to clear the infection and relieve the pain for good.
If you notice any of these signs in your own rabbit, please speak to your vet as soon as possible. Caught early, ear infections are far easier to treat.
