PLACARD toting rabbits are reminding Swindon people that pets should not be viewed as last minute Christmas presents.
Members of Swindon Animal Concern are backing national group Animal Aid's campaign with a costume demo at Petworld, Greenbridge, at noon on Saturday.
Representatives of the store say the campaign is "extremely misguided", stressing the outlet only sells pets to fully capable people.
SAC spokesperson Marilyn Harrison said: "Deciding whether or not to give a home to an animal can be a life-changing decision.Buying an animal in the Christmas rush is hardly an appropriate time and place to make such a decision."
The rising number of abandoned animals is a year-round problem for local sanctuaries such as Swindon Animal Haven, particularly after Christmas.
SAC believes the best way to offer an animal a home would be to wait until after Christmas and pay a visit to their nearest sanctuary information is available from Marilyn on Swindon 644796.
A Petworld spokesman said: "Before a pet is sold a process is followed whereby it is established, through questioning, whether or not the pet is suitable for that particular customer. We are only too happy to work with organisations such as the RSPCA and rescue centres to ensure that whoever takes a pet home from Petworld understands what is required of them."
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