The City of New Westminster is trying to do its part to stop the proliferation of abandoned bunnies.

On Monday, council gave three readings to a bylaw that would prohibit the sale of pet rabbits in pet stores. The intent of the bylaw is to lessen regional concerns relating to domesticated rabbits being released into nature parks and other areas.

Keith Coueffin, the city's manager of licensing and integrated services, said other municipalities have asked New Westminster to support the initiative because of concerns about rabbits being released.

"It was particularly noted as a very large problem in Richmond Nature Park," he said.

Although city staff is unaware of any stores in New Westminster that currently sell pet rabbits, the pet store bylaw would prohibit the sale of rabbits in pet stores and prevent it from being done in the future.

"I know our petting zoo at times gets requests to take rabbits," Coueffin said. "They just can't handle anymore."