Hello Easter is coming and Moms are looking for creative and fun gifts for the Easter Basket. One traditional gift tends to be the new responsibility of a family pet. Many parents can not resist the temptation of buying "Peter Cottontail", as a gift, and watching their child's face light up with excitement on Easter Morning. This is a huge responsibility for the little one, though, and parents quite often find out, after the fact, that maybe it was not the smartest purchase. I read a "Dear Abby" article in Friday's Times Tribune, listing some considerations before making that "Wascally Wabbit" purchase for Easter morning.
1. Are you willing to make a 7-10 year commitment? That is the average lifespan of a rabbit.
2.What will happen if your child gets bored of the rabbit after 6 months?
3. Is there a place in the house for a rabbit cage?
4. Do you understand the costs of getting the rabbit neutered and providing vet care?
5. Do you realize most rabbits do not like to be held? Will your child accept that?
6. Do you know how fragile rabbits are? Their spine or legs can be damaged if the rabbit is dropped. Children under seven should not be handling rabbits unsupervised.
7. Can you provide 3 hours of exercise a day in an escape proof area outside it's cage?
8. Do the adults want the pet as well, a rabbit should be a family pet?
If you have any further questions about rabbits and their care you can visit www.rabbitnetwork.org or call (781)431-1211 (The Times-Tribune 4/15 "Dear Abby")
Many rabbits are abandoned each year in the wild or in shelters. Parents do not consider the long term responsibility of rabbit care. Yes, it is an adorable gift, that a child will love, but don't forget that rabbits are living creatures that will need that love day after day, not just Easter morning.
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