Reward to catch pet rabbit killer

Thumper was missing for more than 24 hours before being found

An animal charity is offering a reward of up to £1,000 for information leading to the conviction of the person who killed and skinned a pet rabbit.

Misty was taken from her hutch in Dundee in the early hours of Monday morning before being killed. Her fur was then placed back on the ground.

Another rabbit, Thumper, fled during the attack but was found alive the next day, to the relief of her owners.

Welfare group Peta has urged people in the area to keep their pets indoors.

It believes that while the killer is still at large other animals in the Kirkton area - and possibly even residents - could be in danger.

'Violent acts'

The owners of the rabbits, 11-year-old Brad Milne and his mother Donna, were left saddened by the murder but said they were glad to get Thumper back.

Suzanne Bernard from Peta said: "Animal abusers are cowards. They take their issues out on the most defenceless beings available to them.

"Kirkton residents have good reason to be concerned. According to leading mental health professionals and the police, perpetrators of violent acts against animals are often repeat offenders who pose a serious threat not only to other animals but also to the community as a whole."

The Scottish SPCA has also warned that the culprit may strike again and locals should be concerned that someone is walking through their gardens with a knife.

The group has appealed for anyone with information to come forward.