Reasons Against Buying Live Animals as Easter Pets

While it may seem like a fun idea to get your children a real Easter bunny or chick, please do your research and do no impulse buy. 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, as most don’t like to be picked up. They require special handling due to their delicate backs which can break if they struggle too much. 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 to prevent breeding.
Similarly, chickens and ducks are often surrendered to shelters because they require more care than their families are prepared for. Chickens can live an average of 5-8 years. Ducks can live an average of 8-15 years. Both animals can be carriers of Salmonella, which children can be especially susceptible to. Furthermore, many neighborhoods and HOA’s are not properly zoned for or otherwise allow the keeping of chickens and ducks. Both species will need plenty of space and shelter as well as a water source for ducks.
Please consider a stuffed toy bunny or chick or chocolate treats instead this Easter. Cinema Veterinary Centre is located at 23460 Cinema Drive, suite L in Valencia 91355, (661) 253-9300.