Three giant rabbits have been found alive after being callously dumped at fly-tipping hotspot.

The RSPCA rescued the abandoned rabbits from a pile of rubbish by the side of a road in Essex.

A passer-by spotted them among discarded tyres, plastic bags and other waste on Hobbs Cross Road in Epping.

They were taken into boarding where they will be looked after until the RSPCA can look to rehome them.

The charity has said the three male rabbits are happy and in good health.

RSPCA inspector Prisca Giddens who was called out to rescue them on Tuesday 31 March said: "These poor rabbits had literally been dumped out with the rubbish and left at a popular fly-tipping site in Epping.

"It's sad to see a pet left behind like this. We understand this is an extremely difficult time for everyone at the moment but we'd urge pet owners not to abandon their pets but seek help from friends and family if they are struggling to cope."

Coronavirus has forced RSPCA centres and shops to close to the public but the charity is continuing to provide vital care to thousands of animals across England and Wales.

Calls to the animal cruelty line reached nearly 60,000 since the beginning of March when the Covid-19 chaos escalated.

The charity has set up a Coronavirus Emergency Appeal to cope with the increased demand.

The RSPCA website says: "As the coronavirus crisis intensifies, the RSPCA must continue to rescue and care for animals facing shocking cruelty and neglect.

"But our dedicated teams are being stretched to their limit and the number of animals in our care is set to rise."

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