The Easter holiday sometimes brings with it the urge to get the a live bunny to please the kids. Before you do, stop and think it through.
Consider the amount of work and the long-term commitment that comes with ownership of any pet, but especially for rabbits.
Contrary to popular belief, they are not low-maintenance pets and need just as much care and attention — if not more — as cats and dogs.
I have never had a bunny, but I did have a guinea pig, and they are definitely more high-maintenance than dogs. Our guinea pig was worth the work, but many people may not realize how much time and care these types of pets need.
For the unprepared, once the novelty wears off, the cute little bunny can quickly become more of a burden than a blessing if the family is not prepared for the level of commitment.
Each year, following Easter, inexperienced owners surrender these “gift” rabbits to shelters — or worse, just set free outdoors to fend for themselves. These pets cannot survive in the wild.
Domesticated rabbits are not the same as the wild bunnies we see in nature. They also cannot just be left in a cage in the backyard. They are sensitive to temperature and cannot handle cold or heat.
Rabbits are not ideal pets for small children, as they are fragile and can bite.
Here are some bunny facts:
- Rabbits can live 10-12 years.
- They require care from a veterinarian trained to treat rabbits. They are prone to several health issues and will need regular checkups.
- Rabbits should be spayed/neutered and require vaccinations.
- They require a lot of “stuff”: pellets, fresh water, hay, fresh veggies, grooming products, proper housing, toys, litter and supplies, carriers and more.
- They groom themselves constantly and can therefore get hairballs like cats do. Unlike cats, however, rabbits cannot vomit, and swallowing an excessive amount of hair can be fatal.
- They need regular brushing.
- They should be on rabbit-approved flea preventative.
- They have a special diet and require specific housing.
- Bunnies must live indoors to be safe from the elements, diseases and predators.
- They cannot be left in a cage and just fed and watered. They require attention, exercise and room to get out and play.
- Rabbits have high social demands and often do best in pairs.
- Bunnies can get along with cats and dogs, but keep in mind there is an adjustment period when a new animal of any variety is added to the family.
- Consider whether the existing family pets will be “bunny-friendly,” as they may be frightening for a rabbit and cause stress.
- Bunnies can be litter-box trained like cats.
- They have distinct personalities. Some may like to be held or carried around, while others are antisocial and not always cuddly, also like cats.
- During hurricane season, be prepared to evacuate with your bunny and all his stuff.
Learn more about caring for rabbits at rabbit.org. Once you understand the responsibilities that come with having a rabbit, know that they can make entertaining pets!
Ready to hop into bunny ownership? The local parish animal shelter is a good place to start. There are also several rabbit rescues such as BunnAgain Rabbit Rescue And Education, which works with the Jefferson SPCA, and Magic Happens Rabbit Rescue, which is based in Baton Rouge and serves Louisiana and Mississippi. These shelters and rescues have bunnies now and will no doubt see an uptick in unwanted “Easter” bunnies very soon.
Events
APRIL 19: Best in Show Rescue Dog Show at Jefferson Playground (4100 South Drive in New Orleans, will be held from 9:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Join Jefferson Parish Parks and Recreation Department for Best Rescue in Show, where every tail wag tells a tale of triumph and love. Jefferson Parish’s first rescue-exclusive dog show is here to celebrate the heartwarming journey of our four-legged heroes. The $10 entry fee will raise much needed funds for all the rescues participating. For more info, email info@animalrescueneworleans.org.
