Easter baskets overflowing with pastel candy eggs and bright, cuddly bunnies; a classic image this time of year. But, don’t hop on over to surprise your family with a bunny this Easter just yet. There’s some important information you need to know before bringing a bunny into your home. Today, we’re sharing why bunnies aren’t the Easter gift you think they are. Trust us, we know AND LOVE buns!
Why Bunnies Aren’t the Easter Gift You Think They Are: Commitment
Rabbits are crazy cute. They bring lots of springtime cheer. But, they are also live animals with lifespans of up to 12 years. Bunnies require a significant amount of time, money, and care, including a proper diet, spacious enclosure, regular grooming, and preventive veterinary visits.
According to Best Friends Animal Society, “Rabbits require a balanced diet of hay, fresh veggies and fruit, and a few pellets. However, it’s important to note that rabbits have sensitive digestive tracts, so the transition to hay or pellets — or the introduction of new fruits and vegetables — must be done gradually to allow their system to adjust.”
In addition to a balanced and thoughtful diet, rabbits need room to roam and explore. Think exercise pens, bunny-proofed rooms, and dedicated rabbit runs. Meeting a rabbit’s need for space can be a challenge, especially for those living in smaller homes or already at capacity.
Why Bunnies Aren’t the Easter Gift You Think They Are: Sensitivity
Rabbits are sensitive creatures. They are some of the most delicate pets a family can choose. To begin with, because bunnies are prey animals, bunnies are easily startled by loud noises and rough handling. Their delicate nature makes them unsuitable for homes with young children. Young children see bunnies as fuzzy toy; they do not understand how to gently interact with them.
In addition, a dropped bunny can mean a broken bone, dislocation of the back, or worse. For this reason, supervision is key no matter who is handling them. And, because bunnies hide their illnesses very well – as most prey animals do – they are known for getting very sick very quickly. A sudden illness could mean a very sad goodbye long before you’re ready.
Why Bunnies Aren’t the Easter Gift You Think They Are: Responsibility
Sadly, many bunnies given as Easter gifts end up abandoned in shelters. This often happens when the novelty of having a pet bunny wears off. Shelters are already overcrowded and these delicate furballs face stressful and uncertain futures in shelter environments. If there is any chance that a bunny may not be right for your family longterm, we beg you to spare bunnies this awful fate. It’s the responsible thing to do.
In addition, we at Animal Admiration believe that pets should never be given as gifts. Responsible pet parenting starts with having the whole family on board. It involves a solid pet care plan moreso than a fun surprise. Ensuring that every member of the family is included in honest discussions about the best pet for your family’s lifestyle ensures that everyone will be happy with the addition – including the pet.
Why Bunnies Aren’t the Easter Gift You Think They Are: Alternatives
Your kids may have their hearts set on a pet bunny but it’s your job to be realistic about your family’s ability to meet a new pet’s needs. Giving into kids’ demands for a new pet – bunny or otherwise – is a sure-fire way to give kids the wrong impression of what pet parenting entails. Instead, discuss your concerns, limitations, and future plans. And, for now, opt for something less risky like a stuffed animal or toy. If a toy won’t cut it, get creative and consider local art – either canvas or metal – and display your decorative bunny in a special place in your home. Just think how festive your home would look with a cute metal bunny – made of horseshoes, no less – like this one on the right. Visit Diamond W Customz for more similar designs. They are locally owned and operated.
If a rabbit is truly your family’s dream pet, wait until after Easter. Do your research, ensure everyone in the household agrees, and welcome your new bunny friend in a home that is well-suited and prepared for his or her arrival. I can assure you, you’ll be glad you waited for the right rabbit to join your family.
Why Bunnies Aren’t the Easter Gift You Think They Are: Education
If your child is old enough to understand, explain that bunnies are an often underrepresented pet in the rescue world. Encourage them to donate to a rabbit rescue, raise funds for a rabbit sanctuary, or make toys for a local shelter that houses rabbits. Teaching kids to support organizations that care for bunnies teaches them about responsibility and compassion.
In the Katy/Houston area, you’ll find Bunny Buddies and Houston Rabbit Resource. Both of these organizations are dedicated to supporting homeless bunnies in their pursuit for a warm, welcoming place to land. Consider donating to these local rescues and reach out to learn more about fostering a bun. Fostering is a great way to get to know the needs of a pet rabbit before you commit to one for good.
At Animal Admiration, we prioritize the wellbeing of the pets in our care. We also take our commitment to our clients very seriously. For this reason, we urge you to take your time choosing your next pet. Never choose a pet as a gift or as an impulse purchase.
To learn about our in-home pet care services including bunny sitting, contact us at info@animaladmiration.com or (281) 391-1015. Our team of outstanding pet care providers offers quality care pet sitting and dog walking services in Katy, Fulshear, Richmond, Energy Corridor, Memorial, West Houston, and Cypress. We look forward to hearing from you!
