DEAR ABBY: Easter is coming. Many families still purchase
live rabbits as pets for their children. Parents often think rabbits are
good "starter" pets and don't understand what they are getting themselves
into. As a result, too many of these poor creatures end up in animal
shelters, and children learn that pets are disposable.
Before getting rabbits, people should consider:
(1) Are they willing to make a 7- to 10-year commitment?
That is the average lifespan of a rabbit.
(2) What will happen if their child gets bored with the
bunny after six months?
(3) Is there a place in their house for a rabbit cage?
(4) Are they willing to pay to get it spayed/neutered and
provide vet care?
(5) Do they know that most rabbits hate to be held? Will
their child accept that?
(6) Are they willing to ensure that children under 7 won't
pick up the rabbit without supervision? Rabbits are fragile; their legs or
spine will break if accidentally dropped.
(7) Can they provide three hours of exercise every day in
an escape-proof area outside its cage?
(8) Do the adults want the rabbit, too? A rabbit should be
a family pet.
If people have questions about rabbits and their care,
please ask them to contact my organization. We are happy to answer
questions. Our Web site is http://www.rabbitnetwork.org and our phone
number is (781) 431-1211.
Finally, if a rabbit is right for you and your family,
please adopt one from a shelter or rescue group. You enrich your family
with a new member and also teach your kids the value of saving a life.
Thank you. --
SUZANNE TRAYHAN, PRESIDENT, HOUSE RABBIT NETWORK
DEAR SUZANNE: The topic of bunnies, baby chicks and
ducklings as Easter gifts is one that recurs every year. I hear from
people who work in animal shelters deploring the fact that the helpless
little creatures are later dumped when they cease to be novelties. I hope
readers will take to heart what you have written, particularly the
suggestion that if a rabbit is going to be adopted, a shelter or rescue
group can be an excellent resource.
http://www.uexpress.com/dearabby/?uc_full_date=20040404
Go on to I Hear Their
Voices Crying
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