The glittering facade of influencer Anna Delvey’s Instagram photoshoot collapsed this week when three domesticated rabbits she posed with were callously abandoned in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park—sparking a rescue operation and public fury. The controversial personality, known for Netflix’s Inventing Anna and currently under house arrest, faces renewed scrutiny after team member Christian Batty admitted dumping the animals, upending Delvey’s claims the bunnies were “safely returned.”
How Did the Anna Delvey Bunny Scandal Unfold?
The incident began when Delvey, boasting over 1 million Instagram followers, posted glamorous shots on August 11, 2025, featuring leashed rabbits in an apparent promotion. Within hours, local rescuers discovered distressed bunnies matching those in her photos wandering Prospect Park. A Reddit user who rescued two rabbits revealed: “They were improperly handled—tranced into paralysis during the shoot.”
Delvey initially threatened legal action against critics, insisting the animals were “safe at home.” However, Batty—identified as the bunnies’ source—confessed on Facebook: “I panicked. At 19, with no pet experience or housing, I released them believing other rabbits lived there.” His admission contradicted Delvey’s narrative and ignited outrage among animal rights groups.
What Accountability Exists for Influencers Using Animals?
The scandal highlights ethical gaps in influencer marketing. Veterinarian Dr. Elena Torres (Animal Welfare Institute, 2025) states: “Trancing rabbits causes severe stress. Using pets as props without verified caretaker plans is reckless.” New York law (Agriculture & Markets Law § 355) penalizes animal abandonment with up to 1 year in jail, though enforcement remains inconsistent.
All three rabbits were rescued by volunteers like @veganchao, who documented their recovery. Delvey later posted Instagram Story apologies: “I’m appalled… I’ll never work with animals without verifying their safety.” Yet activists demand stricter consequences. “This wasn’t a mistake—it’s entitlement,” argues Humane Society campaign director Marco Li (August 2025 report).
The Anna Delvey bunnies scandal underscores a brutal truth: viral clout must never override animal welfare. As influencers blur ethical lines, public vigilance and legal accountability remain critical. Demand transparency from content creators—share this story to protect vulnerable animals.
Must Know
Q: Who rescued Anna Delvey’s abandoned bunnies?
Local volunteers and groups like Prospect Park Animal Rescue located all three rabbits. Instagram user @veganchao shared foster updates, confirming their safety after veterinary checks.
Q: What is “trancing” rabbits, and why is it harmful?
Trancing involves holding bunnies on their backs, triggering a fear-induced paralysis. The Rabbit Welfare Association (2025) condemns it as traumatic, risking spinal injury or cardiac arrest.
Q: Could Anna Delvey face legal repercussions?
While Batty admitted abandonment, New York prosecutors must prove Delvey’s involvement. Potential charges include animal cruelty (penalties: fines up to $1,000, 1-year jail).
Q: How can the public prevent similar incidents?
Report suspicious animal use to local shelters. Verify influencers’ animal sources before engaging their content. Support legislation like NY’s A.5652, mandating permits for commercial animal use.
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