It’s almost here. Easter. The time of year when, somehow, rabbits magically lay eggs and represent candy and toys. The time of year when pet supply stores and pet shops stock up on baby bunnies that people can buy for their kids as Easter gifts.
Here’s how it goes:
1. Parents buy kids a baby bunny for Easter.
2. Kids are over-joyed. They have a baby bunny. A delicate creature that is easily scared and easily injured by the rough and un-sturdy hands of little humans.
3. Bunny gets a hutch in the back yard.
4. Bunny gets poked at through the fencing.
5. Mom and dad periodically feed bunny an un-suitable diet of “rabbit food” they found for cheap at the store.
6. Bunny grows up really fast and isn’t cute anymore.
7. Kids get bored of bunny.
8. Parents no longer want bunny or forget about bunny.
Now… one of two things happens:
Either – Parents forget about bunny, and bunny gets rained on, cold, hot, stalked by predators, lonely, hungry and dies scared, starving and alone. Yes. This happens all the time.
-OR-
Bunny gets put into a box and dumped at a shelter.
Here’s some facts for you:
1. 4 out of 5 rabbits bought for easter are either abandoned or die within a year. 4 out of 5, folks.
2. Rabbits are not starter pets. GET OVER IT and buy your kid a stuffed animal or a scooter. Rabbits are not recommended pets for children under the age of 12.
3. Rabbits have lifespans of 10+ years. TEN YEARS. Let’s say that again… Louder this time, TEN YEARS.
4. Rabbits require SPACE. A hutch or cage is not acceptable. They should be in your home or in a climate controlled (well protected) area with enough room to run, hop, hide and stretch out.
5. Rabbits deserve love, attention and veterinary care.
6. They need HAY as the primary source of food in their diet.
7. Rabbits are social animals.
8. They can be litter box trained just like a cat and they produce around 200-300 poops PER DAY.
9. Rabbits PLAY. They love toys and enrichment activities like food puzzles, snuffle mats, cardboard boxes and crinkle tunnels.
10. Rabbits require the care of people willing to learn about them, treat them properly and understand their behavior.
This is just skimming the surface of what it takes to care for bunnies. If you are not prepared to take your rabbit to a vet, provide them with adequate living conditions or share your home and your love and affection, DON’T GET ONE.
Don’t be a part of the problem. This year #makeminechocolate and save lives. If you don’t know how to help but want to help, spread the word. Share this post. Donate to your local rabbit rescue (because after Easter they’re going to be overflowing with rabbits that people no longer want).
The Craftie Gnome 