Authorities seize nearly 2,000 rabbits and 127 dogs from Zuid-Holland breeding facility

Dutch authorities seized 1,800 rabbits, 127 dogs, and dozens of young puppies during an inspection at a rabbit and dog breeding facility in Zuid-Holland, the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) said on Friday. The NVWA also said an official police report has been filed against the owner.

The NVWA said the rabbits were kept in cages that were too small and located in a hot attic, where temperatures had already risen above 30 degrees Celsius in the morning. The breeder had placed fans in the area, but inspectors determined the conditions remained inadequate.

The authority had previously identified problems at the facility. During an earlier inspection, the breeder was warned about deficiencies in the animals’ housing, and an administrative penalty was imposed. A follow-up inspection found that the required changes had not been made.

Inspectors also found that the rabbit cages did not allow the animals enough space to move and contained sharp edges that could cause injuries. The rabbits were kept above a cattle barn, which likely contributed to elevated ammonia levels in the area.

The facility also bred dogs, with too many housed in a limited area. According to the NVWA, mother dogs and their puppies were kept in spaces so small that the puppies were unable to drink properly.

The seized dogs and rabbits were transferred to specialized care facilities. The owner is responsible for the costs of removing, housing, and caring for the animals.