Authorities are investigating why a rabbit was found in a New Hampshire river with a rope around its neck on July 7.
About 4:19 p.m. local time, Raymond New Hampshire Police Department responded to an animal complaint that a pet rabbit was swimming in the Lamprey River near Pecker Bridge, 30 miles southeast of Concord.
Police said two kayakers rescued the rabbit from the water and surrendered it to officers when they arrived at the scene.
Officers transported the bunny about 5 miles west to the nearest Candray Pet Care Center at Candia where veterinarians nursed the animal back to health.
“The rabbit is doing well and is safe,” police said. “The bunny is alive and well.”
Candray Pet Care Center said it had already received “overwhelming sympathy” and a “huge emotional response” for the rescued bunny.
Rabbits are a common pet in the United States. They are the third most popular preference after cats and dogs, according to the Humane Society of the United States, which also makes them one of the most often abandoned.
If nobody claims the bunny, it could be made available for adoption.
“We will let you know [on Facebook] if and when she becomes available for adoption,” the pet care center said. “At this time we are simply keeping her safe and monitoring her carefully as she heals.”
Animal cruelty charges are pending against a juvenile, AP reported.
Police investigations continue.
