A PET-LOVER is warning rabbit owners to vaccinate their animals against a deadly disease which she believes is on the rise in North Devon.

Myxomatosis was first thought to have been identified in South America in the 19th century and was later used to deliberately kill rabbits in the United Kingdom to protect crops after the Second World War.

The disease almost wiped out the wild rabbit population in the UK in the 1950s and since then, it has declined. But now, Amy Hasler from Barnstaple is raising the alarm after her rabbit fell victim to the lethal virus.

She said: "It has become more prevalent in pet rabbits recently, and people need to be aware of the necessity of fast action and vaccination to save their pet.

"Despite being vaccinated in the last few years, one of my pet rabbits, Chicken, has caught myxomatosis."

Diana Lewis, at the North Devon Animal Ambulance, confirmed myxomatosis was "back with a vengeance".

She said: "We have collected 11 rabbits in the last week who have had to be put down. The disease has been on the rise since October, particularly in Fremington, Yelland and the Northam Burrows.

"It is a horrible and slow disease and all I can say is owners must get the vaccination. People do not realise how easily it spreads."

She said rabbit-owners should check animals for lumps, blistering, sneezing and general ill-feeling, every day.

A spokesperson for the PDSA, a veterinary charity, warned the disease could strike at any time because it was spread by biting insects such as fleas, mosquitoes and horseflies.

Pneumonia and inflammation of the lungs are common side effects.

The RSPCA does not keep any figures relating to myxomatosis but it said it appeared to have increased in North Devon over the past year.

Amy said: "My rabbit has been really unwell but after being treated with antibiotics and anti-inflammatories, the rabbit is better — although the scars will still remain.

"But if a rabbit is not vaccinated, not much can be done to save it."

The vaccine, which costs between £15 and £30, is not 100% effective, but allows most of the symptoms to be treated.

● If anyone has concerns about their rabbit they can phone North Devon Animal Ambulance on 07817 995751, the RSPCA on 0300 1234 555, or the PDSA on 0800 9172509.