Weeks after Easter, children lose interest in the rabbit and by that time the parents have realized that they vastly underestimated the amount of care that bunnies require. Typically, the rabbits are dumped at the shelter, or simply set free outdoors, where they will likely starve or be killed by predators.

The House Rabbit Network would like to make sure all parents know that a live rabbit for Easter is never a good idea. If your kids are begging “Easter bunny,” you should consider the responsibilities of owning a rabbit. A rabbit spay or neuter, imperative for medical and behavioral reasons, generally costs over $200. Bunnies live 8-10 years… perhaps too long of a commitment for your family. Contrary to popular belief, most rabbits dislike being picked up, held or cuddled. A pet rabbit can thrive in an indoor home, but cannot remain confined in a cage all day. A rabbit running around your home requires litter box training, something that will take time and patience. It is also very important to bunny-proof your home so that your rabbit does not get injured.

Rabbits can make wonderful, rewarding pets for the right home. If you decide that you do want a bunny for your family, please do some research first. You and your family should probably wait until after Easter to be sure that getting a rabbit is the right decision. You should never get a rabbit that is less than 8 weeks old, as rabbits that are weaned too early often have digestive problems. We strongly encourage people to adopt a rabbit from a shelter or rescue group that needs a home. In doing so, you will teach your children compassion and a valuable lesson in saving a life. There are many friendly, healthy rabbits in rescues. Adoption counselors can work with you to find the right rabbit for your home. The House Rabbit Network does adopt rabbits to homes with children, but the parents must be genuinely interested in having a bunny and agree to take primary responsibility. For general information on rabbit care, please read our “Bunny Basics” article found on our website www.rabbitnetwork.org. If you are ready to adopt rabbit, check out the listings of adoptable rabbits on the website and call us at 781-431-1211.

The House Rabbit Network is a Massachusetts-based 501 ©3 non-profit, all-volunteer organization. We are dedicated to saving and adopting out unwanted bunnies and educating the public about rabbits. We can always use more volunteers! Donations of any amount are always welcome and are used to support our efforts to find loving, forever homes for each and every bunny. Thank you for your continued support.

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