Pet shops in west London are suspending sales of rabbits over Easter to prevent impulse purchases leading to a spike in abandoned bunnies.

Pets at Home stores in the area will not sell the animals between 9am on Good Friday (March 25) until close of business on Monday, March 28.

They are instead hosting free "small furry workshops" over the holidays to teach families how to care for creatures like rabbits and ensure they are prepared for the commitment.

Staff will pass on their knowledge before quizzing children about the little critters' needs, from nutrition to the right habitat.

Youngsters taking part will receive a certificate and sticker as well as a pet promise card so they can pledge to look after any creature they have responsibly.

In February, getwestlondon reported how a family of rabbits had been rescued after being thrown from the boot of a car.

'Putting pets before profit'

Pets at Home, which has branches in Brentford , Feltham , Greenford , Hayes , Ruislip and West Drayton , says each year at Easter it sees an increased interest in rabbits.

It says rabbits are the third most popular choice of pet for British children, but many end up unwanted and homeless each year.

Stephen Adams, store manager at Pets at Home's Brentford branch, said: "We pride ourselves on putting pets before profit, so we've decided not to sell rabbits over the Easter weekend to reduce the number of healthy rabbits left homeless as a result of an impulse purchase.

"Young pet lovers in Brentford can attend our fun workshops to get an insight into the level of care needed to ensure these types of pets live happy, healthy lives. They also give parents a fun activity to entertain their children during the holidays."

To find out when the My Pet Pals Acitivity Club will be happening at your nearest store, visit the Pets at Home website.