05/10/2026
๐Extra Info For Pet Rabbit Owners๐
As the Shire works to control wild rabbit populations, owners of pet rabbits will need to take extra precautions to keep their furbabies safe:
๐There is no vaccine currently allowed in Australia to protect against Myxomatosis.
๐The available Calicivirus vaccine must be boosted each year to have a chance of protecting your rabbit. Make sure to get it sorted!
๐There is no treatment or cure for either of these viruses!
Contact with wild rabbits, their droppings, along with mosquitoes, flies, lice, fleas, ticks and mites must be prevented to keep your rabbit safe:
๐Indoor house rabbits are the most protected. Wash hands before handling your rabbit, change clothes when you return home, and leave shoes outside to prevent contamination entering your rabbit's home.
๐Protect outside arrangements with insect-proof (eg, mosquitio netting) mesh, and prevent any possible contact with wild rabbits. Practise the above hygiene.
๐Ensure you are on top of all lice, flea, tick and mite protection for your pets. Regular cleaning with F10 or 10% bleach can also be beneficial.
๐Thoroughly wash any garden grown veggies before giving them to your pet, and ensure wild rabbits can not access your garden.
๐Do not take any pet rabbits out adventuring from your home at this time. They are safest on your property!
๐Do not handle wild rabbits directly, especially deceased ones.
If you'd like more information and suggestions, come on in and chat with us - we're here to help you and your pets ๐ฐ
In October, the City of Albany will be undertaking its ongoing rabbit control program, which includes the release of the Calicivirus and Myxomatosis to over 40 sites across the Albany Local Government Area.
These viruses are already in the environment and are specific to rabbits and hares and do not pose a risk to humans, other domestic animals, or native wildlife. Residents wanting more information about the viruses can visit https://bit.ly/3VEGFKa
If you own a pet rabbit it is important that your pet is vaccinated against these viruses by a veterinarian.
More information on how to protect your pet rabbit can be found at https://bit.ly/4e2KnUd