Easter Bunny Comes Home To Stay

April 16, 2022

Photo: zhuravleva_katia

 

If you’re thinking of getting a rabbit as a companion animal, then consider adopting from your local animal shelter instead of heading to the nearest pet shop. There’s always plenty of rabbits in shelters looking for good homes. 

 

In fact, in 2021 the OSPCA hosted their annual Rabbit Adoption Week for 50 different rabbits across the province. From mini-lops to Lionheads and everything in between, this event coincides with International Rabbit Day, which takes place on the fourth Saturday in September every year. This year it takes place on September 24th.

 

International Rabbit Day was founded in 1998 by The Rabbit Charity, UK and promotes awareness about rabbits in need, for their protection and conservation. #internationalrabbitday

 

“Like any animal, rabbits can bring much love and joy into the life of their adopter,” says Tracy McElman, Provincial Manager Community Programming & Animal Centre Services, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “If you have been thinking of welcoming a furry friend to your family and are prepared for the lifetime commitment of caring for a rabbit, there are many adorable bunnies who would love to join your family.”

 

Tips On Keeping Pet Rabbits

 

  1. Find a veterinarian that specialises in small animals and make sure your pet rabbit is all up to date on their vaccines.
  2. If you’re adopting more than one rabbit, consider neutering them to avoid aggression (particularly in males) and mating in mixed pairs.
  3. Handle your bunny with care. Rabbits have delicate bones and get scared when lifted off the ground. Cradle them in your arms, making sure to support their legs.
  4. Rabbits frighten easily, so they need a quiet, secure place to snuggle down and sleep.
  5. During the day, they can be quite active, so they need a secure pen or play area where they can frolic and race around for a couple of hours each day.
  6. Rabbits love a clean pen and require twice weekly cleaning and regular grooming. Choose aspen wood chips not cedar, as it will make them very ill.
  7. Rabbits need a varied diet of pellets, Timothy or brome grass and dark leafy greens.
  8. Give your rabbits something safe to chew and rabbit-proof your home so they don’t injure themselves by gnawing on electrical cords, house plants and furnishings.

 

Rabbits are extremely social and affectionate animals who love to be part of a family, even if it is human. They are quiet, gentle creatures, each with their own distinct personality. They are known to bond closely with their carers and can easily be trained to do tricks and use a litter tray. They love to play and enjoy the challenge of a bunny obstacle course. In short, bunnies are not only cute but smart too.

 

You can find adoptable rabbits at the Humane Society and the Ontario SPCA. The adoption fee for a rabbit is $130, which includes spaying or neutering.