Three rabbits have been abandoned in hutches which were for sale outside a Wallasey pet shop.

Staff at the Aquatic and Reptile Centre on Poulton Road discovered the surprise additions when they went to bring the hutches in at around 5.30pm last Tuesday.

The animals were underweight, one had just three legs and another had a bad mite infestation.

The RSPCA was called by the pet shop owner Paul Wren. He said: “I couldn’t believe it when the staff came in and said they’d found three rabbits in the hutches.

" It was quite a cold day so we brought them straight inside and got them warmed up and fed and watered. It’s terrible that anyone would abandon them like this.”

The rabbits were taken to a local veterinary practice to be examined and treated. One was very underweight and will have been caused to suffer as a result.

RSPCA inspector Andy Harris said: “This is the first time I’ve ever heard of an animal being abandoned in this way.

“It sounds comical but it’s no laughing matter really. All owners have a responsibility to meet the needs of the animals in there care which includes finding them a new and appropriate home should the need arise.

Simply dumping them is unacceptable.”

None were micro-chipped so at the moment the RSPCA has no way of tracing their owner.

Anyone who thinks they can help should call the RSPCA on the 24-hour cruelty line 0300 1234 999 and ask to leave a message for him.

All are now in the care of RSPCA Wirral & Chester Branch Animal Centre where they’ll stay until they’re well enough for new homes to be sought.