This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2014, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
As Easter gets closer many adults will be tempted to buy an Easter rabbit for their child or grandchild. And a few months from now, our local animal shelters will be inundated by a flood of cast-off bunnies.
Before you buy a cute little bunny, please consider the following: First, although rabbits can make wonderful pets, they are fragile and can be easily injured by a child.
Second, a well-cared-for rabbit should live as long as a dog or cat (10 years or more) and will require just as much care, including specialized veterinary care. Bunnies are social animals and do best indoors as part of the family.
Third, if you really do want a rabbit and are prepared for one, the local shelters have many cute rabbits to choose from, many already spayed or neutered.
If you want to make this Easter happy for a child (and for the Easter bunny, too) don't give a live rabbit, give a stuffed or chocolate bunny instead and make a donation to one of the many excellent local animal rescue groups on the child's behalf.
Danette Borg
Lindon