Unleashed: Easter brings an upward trend in rabbit adoptions—and abandonments
Each Easter, some children receive live bunnies (and/or chicks) along with their dyed eggs and candy-filled baskets. Many of those animals are impulse purchases from roadside vendors, pet stores, breeders or even feed stores. But many buyers don’t consider the long-term responsibility of caring for these pets after the chocolate bunnies and marshmallow peeps disappear.
As a result, by the end of April, Magic Happens Rabbit Rescue (MHRR) 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.
To pre-empt those tragedies, MHRR encourages families to consider whether they are ready for the responsibility of caring for a rabbit.
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Before buying beautiful live bunnies, families need to look beyond the baby rabbit’s appeal as a cute holiday prop and realize bunnies aren’t for everybody. “Do your research before you get a bunny—or any pet,” says MHRR founder Wendy Lincoln.
Sometimes, that research starts by determining if and why children really want a rabbit. Over the years, MHRR has received quite a few bunnies bought for children who were disappointed that their bunny didn’t talk or sing (a la Bugs Bunny or Roger Rabbit). Other families turned in bunnies because the kids were terrified when the creature ran around erratically, scratched or nipped. If kids’ expectations are unrealistic or their interest is fleeting, it’s probably best to get a chocolate or animatronic hare.
In addition, some unscrupulous vendors also 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. However, “This is a pet, who needs daily care and attention. And, a rabbit has a lifespan of up to 10 years,” Lincoln says. So, a good owner is committed to caring for and interacting with a bunny throughout the course of the pet’s life.
Rabbits can make terrific pets. 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 educational links and adorable adoptable rabbits available at MHRR’s website.
Creature feature
MHRR also offers a variety of adoptable bunnies and rabbits for Easter and year round:
Aria is a beautiful tan and white bunny. She is shy, but curious. She working on becoming litterbox trained. She really enjoys hopping in and under a mini table in the condo. She has been around cats and small and large gentle dogs.
Galen is a male short-coated Californian. He was recently transferred into rescue from a local shelter. More information on his personality will be available once he settles into foster care.
Chester is a beautiful short-coated bunny rabbit. He tolerates bunny-friendly small dogs and is working on becoming litterbox trained.
Zyra recently entered rescue from a local animal shelter. When she was surrendered by her owner, she was covered in mats and urine. Now that she’s clean and feeling better, Zyra appears to be very calm.
Mocha (ears down) and Pixie (ears up) are 3-year-old mini lop/Holland lop mixes. They’ve lived together since birth and would like to be adopted together. They’ll come to see their foster—especially for food and treats—but are more interested in playing.
Zulu is a 4-month-old mini Rex mix. His entire litter came into rescue from the New Orleans area shelter. More personality info will be added as him foster learns more about this little guy.
These and many other adoptable bunnies and rabbits are available at Magic Happens Rabbit Rescue’s website or Facebook page.
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