Letter to Dear Abby

Dear Abby,

Easter is coming and many families will purchase live rabbits for their children as pets. Unfortunately, many people think rabbits are good starter pets and don't know what they are getting themselves into. As a result, too many end up at shelters and children learn that pets are disposable. Whether you are getting a rabbit or another pet, people should know what they are getting themselves into first.

Before getting a rabbit, people should ask themselves these important questions:

1. Are you willing to make a 7-10 year commitment? That is the average lifespan of a rabbit
2. What happens when your child gets bored of the bunny after 6 months?
3. Do you have a good place in your house to set up a cage for the rabbit?
4. Are you willing to pay to get your rabbit spayed/neutered and provide vet care?
5. Do you realize that most rabbits hate to be held? Will your child accept that?
6. Are you willing to supervise any children under 7 when they are near the rabbit to make sure they don't pick them up? Rabbits are fragile and may break a leg or spine if accidentally dropped.
7. Can you provide 3 hours of exercise time every day in a rabbit proofed area?
8. Do you want the rabbit too? The rabbit should be a family pet.

If you can answer these questions appropriately, then please read our Bunny Basics to make sure you know what you are getting yourself into. You should also read our article on Rabbits and Easter.
Bunny Basics
Rabbits and Easter
If people have any questions about rabbits and their care, please contact my organization. We are more than happy to honestly answer any questions people have about them. Our email address is info@rabbitnetwork.org and our phone number is 781-431-1211.

Finally, if a rabbit is right for you and your family, please consider adopting one from a shelter or rescue group instead. Not only will you enrich your family with a new member, but you will also teach your kids the value of saving a life.

Thank you.
Suzanne Trayhan
President
House Rabbit Network