Rabbit Stolen by Men Allegedly Speaking Russian, Family Says

A family's pet rabbit, Peter, was stolen from its hutch in Hull, England, on a Saturday afternoon by two men who were filmed grabbing the animal by its ears. The owners, who were out at the time, discovered the theft upon returning home and were further distressed upon viewing CCTV footage of the incident. The family has reported that the men appeared to be speaking Russian and made comments that suggested they intended to prepare the rabbit as food.

Amy Ulliott, Peter's owner, told the Daily Mail that she felt "physically sick" after watching the video. She noted that the rabbit was dangling by its ears, a method she believes could have caused serious injury or broken its neck. The family immediately contacted Humberside Police and initiated their own search, posting the video on social media.

On Sunday afternoon, nearly 24 hours after the theft, Peter was found in a car park about a mile away. The individual who found the rabbit had taken it in, provided food and water, and contacted the family after seeing their social media posts. Ms. Ulliott reported that Peter was "wheezy and sad" but is expected to make a full recovery after being checked by a veterinarian.

Humberside Police are investigating the incident. According to Ms. Ulliott, a Russian speaker who contacted the family translated the men's comments as "we'll make shashlik out of it," referring to a type of kebab. Another translation suggested one man asked, "Are there potatoes there?" potentially indicating an intention to make rabbit stew. The family expressed disbelief at the "utter disregard" shown for the animal and its owners.

Peter requires medication three times a day for a condition called gut stasis, and the family was anxious about him missing doses during his ordeal. Despite the frightening experience, Peter is now back home with his family, including another rabbit named Thumper, and their cat and dog.