Rabbits and other live animals have been popular holiday gifts for children for generations, but some animal welfare experts are sounding the alarm about the dangers of buying and keeping these animals as pets. A recent review of the issue by the Rancho Coastal Humane Society has led the organization to issue a warning about the risks of buying live rabbits or other animals as gifts for Easter. * The risks to animal welfare
* The risks to human health and safety
* The long-term commitment required to care for these animals
According to experts, buying a live animal on a whim can lead to abandonment when the novelty wears off and families realize they’re not equipped to properly care for the pets. Instead of a live animal, rescue groups recommend buying a stuffed toy bunny or chocolate candy rabbit for kids’ Easter baskets. “It’s not that we don’t want people to have pets, but the idea that these are disposable gifts is just not true,” said John Van Zante, a representative of the Rancho Coastal Humane Society. “Domestic rabbits are not the same as wild rabbits and are not equipped to survive outside. If they’re not spayed or neutered, they can breed quickly and cause a problem.”
Van Zante also warned about the dangers of buying baby chicks as Easter gifts. “Chickens can be noisy, and fragrant,” he said. “If you get a chick who ends up being a rooster, it won’t take long for your neighbors to really not like you.”
Despite the risks, many people still choose to buy live animals as gifts for Easter. The RCHS has seen an increase in the number of unwanted rabbits and chickens that end up in their shelter. “Because each pet adoption is based on a detailed consultation with an adoptions counselor to ensure it is a good fit for both the animal and the person, we would not caution adopting a rabbit due to the time of year,” said Nina Thompson, a representative of the San Diego Humane Society. However, Thompson and other experts emphasize the importance of adopting from shelters and rescue groups rather than buying from breeders or pet stores. * Rabbits are not low-maintenance pets. They require a specific diet, humane indoor housing in a bunny-proofed room, and veterinary care can be expensive. * Rabbits are also not ideal pets for small children, as they respond best to quiet energy and can be easily spooked by the hyperactivity of a child. Despite the challenges, many people find that domestic rabbits can be wonderful companions. Animal advocates offer the following tips for caring for a rabbit:
* Domestic rabbits should be kept indoors at all times. * Rabbits need to be spayed or neutered as soon as they’re old enough (between four and six months) to avoid unnecessary breeding and to aid their health. * Once they’ve been spayed or neutered, bunnies should be paired with a mate who’s also been spayed or neutered for lifelong companionship. Single bunnies can be lonely and depressed. * Rabbits should be fed a diet of unlimited timothy hay (or alfalfa hay for rabbits under 6 months), plus a daily portion of leafy greens and limited pellets. * Rabbits should never be kept in cages, as they need room to hop around and exercise their legs. * Rabbits need to be thoroughly groomed every two to three months to remove excess fur and have their nails trimmed. * Rabbits who stop eating or appear to be in pain can die within 36 hours, and need immediate care from a veterinarian trained in rabbit care. The San Diego Humane Society has a resource page for small animals such as rabbits at sdhumane.org/about-us/news-center/stories/rabbit-care.html. In addition to the risks to animal welfare and human health and safety, officials also warn the public that Easter baskets can pose a danger to household pets. * Colorful eggs, plastic grass, candy, and chocolate can all be toxic if ingested by animals. * Pets that ingest these items can experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Overall, the issue of buying live animals as gifts for Easter is a complex one that requires careful consideration. While many people enjoy owning rabbits and other small animals as pets, the risks and challenges associated with these animals should not be underestimated. By taking the time to learn about the needs and requirements of rabbits and other small animals, people can make informed decisions about whether or not to bring these animals into their homes. Whether you’re a seasoned rabbit owner or a newcomer to the world of small animal care, there’s always more to learn and discover.
