Pet shops in Medway will stop selling rabbits over Easter to help reduce the number of animals left homeless following an impulse purchase.

Pets at Home stores in Gillingham and Chatham will stop selling the cuddly creatures from 9am on Good Friday until Easter Monday, a time of year when the retailer usually sees an increased interest in them.

Daniel Harding, store manager at the Chatham branch in Maidstone Road, 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.”

Rabbits are the third most popular choice of pet for British children but every year in the UK around 35,000 are handed in to rescue centres, often because people are not aware of the commitment they are making, or the care a rabbit needs to keep it happy and healthy.

To make sure families are fully aware of the specific needs of rabbits, Pets at Home is holding free workshops over the Easter holidays. The sessions aim to help families to make an informed decision about the long term commitment and responsibilities that come with pet ownership.

Mr Harding added: “Young pet lovers 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.”

Staff will be on hand to share their knowledge; quizzing the children on pet care and the welfare needs of small furry shelter, food and water, good health, appropriate company and the right living environment.

After completing the workshops, each child will receive a certificate and sticker, and a pet promise card where they make a pledge to look after any pet they have according to the five welfare needs. Each child will also get the chance to enter the stores colouring competition.

Visit petsathome.com/workshops