When it comes time to adopting a pet, a dog or cat is usually the first choice. Puppies and kittens are off the charts on the cute scale.
And, lately, the idea of adopting a rescue animal is surging to the forefront.
But what about bunnies? Did you know that it’s possible to adopt a homeless bunny? It certainly is, and we wanted to give you some good information just in time for Easter. Think hard before purchasing a bunny from a pet store to give as an Easter gift. Per the ASPCA, “Thousands of ex-Easter bunnies are abandoned to shelters each year when their novelty wears off.”
Top 10 Reasons Why To Adopt A Bunny
A need: There are so many bunnies waiting to go to forever homes just like dogs and cats. And listen to this factoid: There are more than 4800 rescue bunnies listed on Petfinder for adoption. Rabbits are the third most abundant animal available for adoption.
Scheduling is perfect: Because their schedules are more in sync with ours, their most active times are at the beginning and the ends of the day. This is unlike a cat who is nocturnal or dog who needs to be walked several times a day.
They’re vegetarians: If you’re trying to go vegetarian or vegan, rabbits are the perfect companion animal. They prefer fruits and veggies and, as such, force you to stock your refrigerator with produce.
The urban rabbit: Because they don’t need to be exercised outside and are happy to play in large crates or even animal pens, their great for anyone who lives in the city.
Busy lives: If you lead a busy life and don’t have time to walk a dog every day – nor the money to pay for a dog walker – a rabbit gives you the best of both worlds. They love to play in a canine-like way and they can even be litter box trained like a cat.
Allergies: Rabbit fur does not elicit the kinds of allergic reactions that dog fur and cat dander can. (However, many people are still allergic to rabbits and to hay, which is very important component to their diet. So know about your allergies before adopting a rabbit).
They are a hoot: House rabbits have the most comedic habits around. They do spins and kicks, flip over in play dead and even run around the house like they are on the Daytona 500 track.
Great listeners: Bunnies love to snuggle up to you and listen to all of your cares. Just petting their silky soft fur will release all of the angst of the day.
They will be with you for a long time: A rabbit’s lifespan is that of an average sized dog, about 10-12 years, with a good diet and care.
Heroism: When a house rabbit senses danger, they may thump its back legs to alert you of danger. This is the call to danger that rabbits have used in the wild as well. In fact, a heroic bunny in Australia alerted his family to a fire which got them out safely.
The fact that so many bunnies need homes is the probably the most important reason for adopting a bunny. But do you homework and realize that getting an animal is a commitment. Care for them and they will love you unconditionally and be a great addition to your family. Take a look at the Petfinder bunny adoption page today and bring one home for Easter.
Reference link: https://www.petfinder.com/pet-adoption/other-pet-adoption/pet-adoptionotheradopt-a-rescued-rabbit-month-html-2/
Photo Credit: istockphoto.com
