Dear Abby

today's Dear Abby  (Thanks Dear Abby!)!

EASTER BUNNIES FACE SAD FATE AFTER HOLIDAY EXCITEMENT ENDS

DEAR ABBY: Easter is coming. Many families still purchase live rabbits as pets for their children. Parents often think rabbits are good "starter" pets and don't understand what they are getting themselves into. As a result, too many of these poor creatures end up in animal shelters, and children learn that pets are disposable.

Before getting rabbits, people should consider:

(1) Are they willing to make a 7- to 10-year commitment? That is the average lifespan of a rabbit.

(2) What will happen if their child gets bored with the bunny after six months?

(3) Is there a place in their house for a rabbit cage?

(4) Are they willing to pay to get it spayed/neutered and provide vet care?

(5) Do they know that most rabbits hate to be held? Will their child accept that?

(6) Are they willing to ensure that children under 7 won't pick up the rabbit without supervision? Rabbits are fragile; their legs or spine will break if accidentally dropped.

(7) Can they provide three hours of exercise every day in an escape-proof area outside its cage?

(8) Do the adults want the rabbit, too? A rabbit should be a family pet.

If people have questions about rabbits and their care, please ask them to contact my organization. We are happy to answer questions. Our Web site is www.rabbitnetwork.org and our phone number is             (781) 431-1211 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            (781) 431-1211      end_of_the_skype_highlighting      .

Finally, if a rabbit is right for you and your family, please adopt one from a shelter or rescue group. You enrich your family with a new member and also teach your kids the value of saving a life. Thank you. -- SUZANNE TRAYHAN, PRESIDENT, HOUSE RABBIT NETWORK

story continues below
advertisement

DEAR SUZANNE: The topic of bunnies, baby chicks and ducklings as Easter gifts is one that recurs every year. I hear from people who work in animal shelters deploring the fact that the helpless little creatures are later dumped when they cease to be novelties. I hope readers will take to heart what you have written, particularly the suggestion that if a rabbit is going to be adopted, a shelter or rescue group can be