FAQ: Easter Bunnies

We love bunnies here at The Animal Store and we sell a lot of cute ones to people who really want a pet rabbit. But this time of year, some people get excited about the idea of having a real, live “Easter Bunny” without giving a lot of thought about what happens after the holiday is over.

This year, in conjunction with Red Door Animal Shelter, we have taken the Easter Amnesty Pledge, which reads:

Rabbits are the third-most frequently relinquished species at shelters across the country. This problem is exacerbated shortly after the Easter holiday has passed when rabbits are purchased on impulse and the novelty of the new pet has worn off, and the rabbit starts to grow, mature, and need more care.

At The Animal Store, we are committed to promoting high-quality rabbit care and responsible pet guardianship. Therefore, we agree not to sell rabbits between April 2, 2012 and April 13, 2012.

Like all pets, rabbits are a commitment. Did you know that a spayed or neutered pet rabbit can live for 8 to 12 years? Here are a few more interesting bunny facts:

• Rabbits can be litter trained.
• A rabbit’s teeth never stop growing.
• The American Rabbit Breeders Association recognizes 47 unique breeds.
• The small Netherland Dwarf rabbit weighs about 2.5 pounds full grown, while the British Giant Rabbit can weigh more than 15 pounds.
• Since rabbits are ground dwellers, they don’t like to be picked up and will often kick when you try. They do like to be petted, though, so sit down on the floor next to a bunny when you want to pet it.

We think rabbits make great pets and would love to talk to you about what it takes to become a great pet-rabbit owner. Come in anytime to meet our bunnies and learn more about them.