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A Sweet Idea This Easter: Keep Your Rabbits Chocolate

Rabbits Can be Great Pets, but Impulse Holiday Buys Cause Problems for Shelters

Easter is a holiday filled with chocolate-coated, cavity-inducing sweetness. Add to that adorable baby rabbits as mascots, and nothing could be better, right? Unfortunately, Easter isn't such a treat for the rabbits who are given as gifts, or for the animal shelters and rescue groups tasked with helping them once the Easter glow wears off.

Just like cats and dogs, there are thousands of homeless rabbits across the country. The three months following Easter are notoriously challenging times when so many rabbits are surrendered. Children can find rabbits challenging to handle and too often grow bored when the "newness" of the animal wears off. Likewise, parents may be surprised when they find the level of care far more involved than anticipated and quickly become tired or overwhelmed by caring for them.

"At this time of year, countless rabbits are purchased on impulse by families looking for an 'easy starter pet' for the Easter holiday, with no forethought of long-term care," according to Adam Goldfarb, issues specialist in the companion animals department of The Humane Society of the United States. "However, rabbits are complex animals who need knowledgeable, attentive owners who can provide for all of their special needs. These aren't animals you just stick in a cage or hutch like many people think."

Rabbits can be wonderful pets, but they're not right for everyone. Anyone considering adding a rabbit to their family should do thorough rabbit research. Rabbits are social animals who need daily exercise and interaction. They can't be resigned to an outdoor hutch or tiny, pet store bought cage for their entire lives. Potential adopters should honestly evaluate their lifestyle to make sure that a rabbit is a good fit.

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