Reasons Against Buying Live Animals as Easter Pets

 Easter is around the corner and while it may seem like a cute idea to get your children Easter pets like bunnies, ducklings, or chicks, here are a few reasons to think twice.  According to the Humane Society of Utah, “within the first few weeks of Easter, an estimated 30% of all Easter ‘pets’ die and another 60% to 70% are abandoned or turned in to shelters.”
After dogs and cats, rabbits are the animals most surrendered to shelters.  Most families aren’t ready for the life-time commitment that they require: rabbits can live an average of 7-10 years.  Rabbits are not the best pets for small children.  They do not like being lifted off the ground and need to be supported when held.  Their backs are delicate enough that if they struggle or are dropped they can actually break their backs.  Rabbits also love to dig and chew, and a family would need to seriously “rabbit proof” their house to make it safe for the rabbit as well as prevent damage to their property.  In a multi-rabbit household, the owner would need to spay and neuter all rabbits, and must keep in mind that not all rabbits will always get along and fights may occur.  Rabbits will need regular veterinary care to ensure that all needs are being met.
Similarly, chickens and ducks are often surrendered to shelters because they require more care than their families are prepared for.  Furthermore, many neighborhoods and HOA’s are not properly zoned for or otherwise allow keeping of chickens and ducks on the property.   Chickens can live an average of 5-8 years.  Ducks can live an average of 8-15 years.  Both can be carriers of Salmonella, which children can be especially susceptible to.  Both species will need plenty of space and shelter- chickens will need a lot of space to scratch and peck, and ducks should have a water source.  Additionally, chicks might not always grow up to be hens.  Some will grow up to be roosters, which are very noisy and can be very territorial.
If you are still very determined that one of these pets is right for you, please do your research and do not impulse buy.  If these facts have made you pause, then perhaps consider some chocolates or a stuffed animal as an Easter gift instead.
Cinema Veterinary Centre is located at 23460 Cinema Drive, suite L in Valencia 91355, 661-253-9300.