Considering to get your child or grandchild a real live bunny for Easter?
Although the image of a cute and fluffy bunny is so adorable, getting one might not be such a good idea.
Here is why, according to the organisation Adopt, don’t shop.
A bunny is not a toy
It is a living, thinking, feeling animal and requires at least ten years of commitment.
If you are not ready for this, buy a stuffed toy bunny instead. A toy bunny can be hugged, dropped, neglected, forgotten about, and discarded. Sadly, that is often the fate of a pet shop bunny.
Bunnies are not suitable for young children who want something fluffy to carry around
Bunnies do not like to be picked up, and can scratch very sore. This often causes them to be dropped, and get badly hurt.
Bunnies can be expensive pets
You will need to have them sterilised, and also vaccinated against the rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) annually.
Bunnies need specialist vets which are expensive.
Bunnies from pet shops often have health problems which can be difficult and expensive to treat.
Bunnies need plenty of space
They cannot live in a hutch and need a large, safe space to live in.
Bunnies need buddies
They are happiest with a friend or two. A single bunny is a lonely bunny.
Bunnies need the right food
They need lots of hay, and some fresh greens and the occasional healthy snack. If they are fed the wrong diet, they will develop teeth problems which are very painful, and can be life-threatening.
Bunnies can be messy and destructive
You need to be prepared for the work involved – cleaning litter trays, washing bedding, bunny-proofing your house and garden, and more.
Adopt a bunny
If you have read all of this, and you still want a bunny (not for small children), get in touch with one of the many bunny rescue organisations overflowing with bunnies of all shapes and sizes.
These bunnies have already been sterilised and vaccinated. Plus, the rescue organisation will guide you through every step of new pet ownership, making sure you and the bunnies are happy.
Instead of contributing to the bunny overpopulation problem, you will be giving a home to some bunnies in need. And, you will be setting an excellent example for your children.
For more information, have a look at adoptdontshop.org.za or visit Adopt, dont shop South Africa on Facebook.
