Animal Humane Society discourages gifting a live bunny for Easter

But they do encourage participation at the next rabbit event this Sunday

Animal Humane Society (AHS) asks that you make the bunny in your Easter basket chocolate. It’s the sweeter choice when giving a bunny as a gift.

As the third-most surrendered animal at AHS, bunnies come with a misconception that they’re as easy to care for as a hamster or guinea pig. In reality, they require as much time and care as a dog or cat. By giving a live bunny, you’re placing a great responsibility on the recipient. And the person receiving them might not be prepared to provide for their care.

“A pet is a long-term commitment and financial investment that requires careful consideration,” advises Cindy Johnson, customer service director for AHS. “The person who will be caring for that pet should be a part of the decision to make that commitment.” 

Consider giving an adoption gift certificate to AHS or your local shelter instead. You can still create a fun pet surprise for friends or family members with a gift certificate in an Easter basket or attached to a cute stuffed bunny. This approach gives the recipient time to prepare for a new pet and to select just the right one for them. 

At this time of year it’s not uncommon to find newspaper ads and internet sites offering bunnies for sale. Animal Humane Society does not recommend buying pets through these venues. The many bunnies available for adoption at AHS are spayed or neutered, microchipped and many are already family ready.

Let your rabbit stretch his legs
If you’d like to learn more about rabbits or are currently the owner of a pet rabbit, join us and our friends at Minnesota Companion Rabbit Society (MCRS) for a rabbit agility and Hoppy Hour event this Sunday, April 5 at AHS Golden Valley at 845 Meadow Lane North. MCRS volunteers will be on-hand to answer questions and supervise bun-to-bun introductions. Even if you aren't in the market to adopt a rabbit, stop by and get a great bunny fix.

Keep your pets safe during the holiday

• Remember that it’s not safe for animals to ingest Easter lilies or common Easter decorations, such as plastic eggs or decorative grass. Eating these items can prove to be fatal for your pet or require them to have expensive surgery.
• Candy can also be fatal for pets. Chocolate is toxic for dogs, cats and ferrets. Keep your pet away from Easter baskets and other items containing chocolate or any other type of candy.

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