San Andreas, CA…Springtime Greetings from your Calaveras Humane Society. In recent years, we’ve happily seen the trend of giving children live bunnies, chicks or ducklings in their Easter baskets begin to fizzle away. We encourage you to “choose chocolate” (plush critters are great too!) and only give your kids live creatures if you’re prepared to provide for their needs and make them a permanent part of your family.

Everyone considering bringing home a bunny should know:

* Rabbits are not “low-maintenance” pets — they need as much care and attention as dogs and cats.
* Rabbits have an average lifespan of 8-14 years.
* Most children lose interest in a live bunny after only a few weeks.
* Rabbits need regular veterinary care by a vet who has additional training in exotics.
* Rabbits must have an adult as their primary caregiver.
* Rabbits are the third most frequently surrendered animal at shelters, and the third most euthanized.

If you do decide to “go live” this Easter, however, our friends at the House Rabbit Society offer comprehensive information on how to care for your new bunny companion.

http://rabbit.org/articles/