What You Should Know Before Adopting a Bunny

My bunnies, Skittles and Licorice. These brothers came to us via a rabbit rescue.

I know this is entirely off the topic of Streisand, but Barbra is an animal lover and I believe she'd approve of my making this blog entry.

I would like to remind anyone planning on getting an "Easter Bunny" for their kids that rabbits are a lifetime commitment that can last up to 12 years. Just as you would before getting a cat, dog or any pet, please consider that bunnies want to be part of the family. Many people think they are sort of like stuffed toys, but they are living creatures with personalities and feelings. 

Also, bunnies need special care. For instance, you can't use clumping litter in their litter boxes, as you could with a cat. If digested it could kill them. You need to be sure to have a vet that specifically treats exotic pets. Their medical needs are different than a dog or cat.

I know people who, after realizing there was work involved with having a pet bunny, decided to "set them free" into the woods saying, "They're wild animals anyway." WRONG! A domestic rabbit is the same as a domestic dog or cat. No thinking, feeling person would abandon a dog or cat. A bunny would be even more helpless and such an action would be very cruel and irresponsible.

Another thing to consider is how your existing pets would interact with the bunny. A dog or cat might consider the rabbit prey. When picking a bunny you might wish to bring Fluffy or Fido with you. Many shelters will help you introduce them in a safe way to determine if a bunny would be safe in your home with the other pets.

Additionally, why get a bunny only to stick it in a hutch in your yard? Would you want to spend your life away from your humans in a small box? This also makes them targets for predators. Even a raccoon can break into most commercially sold rabbit hutches. Outdoor bunnies in a hutch live a lonely and unsafe life.

BUT if you want a bunny to love and care for to make part of your family- AWESOME! Bunnies are wonderful pets who make excellent family members. We've had bunnies for many years and they provide endless affection, laughs and joy. If you do decide you're ready, please get a shelter rabbit. Visit www.rabbit.org or call your local shelter.

In the weeks following Easter every year shelters find themselves with bunnies that people drop off, not having considered the responsibilities involved with adopting a bunny. Please think it through first. Sorry if I'm sounding "preachy", but bunnies are wonderful, sweet animals and they deserve to be treated right. If you have bunny questions, feel free to ask me!