Hopping to the right conclusions about Easter bunnies

Magic Happens Rabbit Rescue (MHRR) recently launched a revolutionary Facebook campaign to educate the public about responsible rabbit ownership. The first (pictured) in its series of posters has received more than 1,600 shares.

Each Easter, some families bring home bunnies (and/or chicks) as part of their celebration. Many of those animals are impulse purchases from roadside vendors, pet stores, breeders or even feed stores. Few people stop consider the long-term implications of caring for these pets after the chocolate bunnies and marshmallow peeps disappear.

As a result by the end of April, rescues and shelters see a tremendous influx of adolescent rabbits and chickens dumped at their doors. And, those are the lucky ones. Some individuals set the animals “free” in neighborhoods, parks or out in country; there, they fall prey to the elements, starvation, dehydration or other animals.

The Facebook campaign seeks to pre-empt those tragedies. “Do your research before you get a bunny—or any pet,” encourages Wendy Lincoln, MHRR founder and creator of the campaign. “Admittedly, it’s harder to get good information about rabbits, and there’s misconception all around.”

For example, some unscrupulous vendors lead consumers to believe that a rabbit makes a great pet for any child and requires considerably less effort, time and expense than a kitten or puppy. Rabbits can make terrific pets. However, to remain healthy and family friendly, they require daily interaction, veterinary care, specific food, treats and habitats.

If you think a rabbit might be the right pet for your family, explore the education links and adorable adoptable rabbits available at magichappensrescue.com.

See some of Magic Happens’ adoptable, beautiful bunnies below.

	Destin was an impulse purchase on Easter weekend 2012 by college kids on spring break. Thankfully, one of the group recognized the six-week-old bunny was scared, removed him from the situation and turned him over to rescue. This handsome boy was quite the feisty teenager; but, he has since settled into early adulthood. Destin will gladly take treats from your hand. He is a curious guy and an independent soul, who likes to be petted occasionally. Because he doesn’t care for lots of loud noise or commotion, he is best suited for a quiet home.
	Stella and her babies came to MHRR in February. Once the bunnies were weaned, Stella really blossomed and became inquisitive about people. Adorable, sweet and almost litterbox trained, this dwarf/short-coat girl is ready for a new home.
	Dimitri came to MHRR from the Humane Society of South Mississippi in Gulfport, MS this past January. During his first grooming, Dimitri proved to be a little on the shy side at first; but, this short-coated bunny rabbit mix is definitely not very skittish. With encouragement, he was able to make new friends.
	Skipper is one of seven rabbits given to rescue from accidental litters. Unfortunately, his previous owner found out the hard way the two “girl” rabbits weren’t both female. This one-year-old cuddly bunny loves to explore his environment. This dwarf mix currently lives with another rabbit named Josephine. They really like each other and should be adopted together. Because they are spayed/neutered, there is no chance of any other accidental litters.
	LeBlanc came from a hoarding situation in Texas. He transferred from Bunny Buddies of Houston to MHRR in May 2012. This little cutie is timid at first; but, he comes around in time. He will even take treats gently from your hands once his trust is gained. This dwarf/mixed coat has always been on the shy side and startles easily, so he is best suited for a quiet home.
	Bunny is a three-year-old female. Since she has an independent spirit, this short-coated bunny rabbit takes a while to warm up to new acquaintances. Once she becomes comfortable, she’s an absolute sweetheart. While she does not like to be picked up very much, she enjoys being petted and having her head scratched. She loves to be outside her cage and binkies (runs around crazily) all over the place when let out to play.

These and many other adoptable bunnies, rabbits and the occasional guinea pig are available at Magic Happens Rabbit Rescue, magichappensrescue.com or facebook.com/magichappensrescue.