Chocolate Bunnies or Real Bunnies?

With Easter approaching this Sunday, it can be very tempting to give in to a child’s requests and get them their very own live Easter bunny. But in most cases, it’s a bad idea. Rabbits can live for 10 years, and need as much care and attention as dogs and cats. To make matters worse, too many of them are given up by people who find they can’t or don’t want to care for them. They are relinquished to shelters, where many lose their lives when homes are not found. If you really want to consider bringing a bunny into your family, at least do some research first; the House Rabbit Society’s Web site, www.rabbit.org, provides vast resources for learning about the care and needs of rabbits. Consider whether a rabbit would really make a great pet for your family, and whether you can really give it the life it deserves, not just for a few weeks or months but for many years. Ask yourself these questions:

· Would you consider adopting a rabbit if it weren’t Easter time?
· Do children who ask for a bunny really understand what they’re asking for?
· If they were asking for a cat or dog, would you make the same decision?
For those parents willing to make the long-term commitment, HRS suggests contacting your local animal shelter, humane society or rabbit rescue group for information about adopting a rabbit, rather than purchasing one from a pet store. A full list of HRS chapters and contacts, as well as comprehensive information on rabbit care, can be found at www.rabbit.org. You can also find out more at www.makeminechocolate.org.