So, You Want to Adopt a Bunny (Photos)

As of the writing of this post, there were 5,901 rabbits available for adoption on petfinder.com. Many people are surprised and disappointed to find that once they bring home a bunny for their child on Easter, the rabbit rarely conforms to the cute-n-cuddly notion they had anticipated. Baby bunnies (and many young adult rabbits) are too busy dashing madly about–as well as hiding behind furniture, and chewing everything in sight–to be held, according to the House Rabbit Society.

Also, rabbits are delicate animals which means they can be injured by children picking them up. And because rabbits become frightened when they are picked up, they frantically squirm and kick, often resulting in a terrified, if not injured, child. Rabbits are built to react to sudden changes which means they may either run away or try to bite when approached too quickly or too loudly. As well, stress-related illnesses are common. For these reasons, many children find it difficult to interact with a rabbit and soon lose interest. Which, of course, leads to an abundance of rabbits available for adoption on petfinder.com.

If you are interested in adopting a rabbit, use these guidelines to help inform your decision. And if you’re not in the market for a foster bunny, you might at least take a stroll through these pages of abandoned rabbits to get your fill of Easter bunny spirit.

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Read more: Children, Easter, Less Common Pets, Pets

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Carrie Anne B.

5:07AM PDT on Apr 24, 2012

cute thanks for sharing :)

send a green star

Judy A.

11:23AM PDT on Apr 10, 2012

Theya re so beautiful, I want them all!!!

Malana A.

6:07AM PDT on Apr 10, 2012

Of the many privileges I have had in my 60+ years, living with my rabbit, Patch, for the last 5 years is one of the greatest. He is such a gentle and respectful teacher of life priorities. Sharing days with him has opened my eyes to the intelligence and respect for life that animals hold. There is much they can teach us.

Lynn C.

10:09PM PDT on Apr 9, 2012

This was a much needed reality check!

Linda O.

6:44PM PDT on Apr 9, 2012

DON'T adopt bunnies unless you plan to keep them for their entire life!!! They are not a passing fancy for your children and require a special diet and long-term care.

SuSanne P.

6:00PM PDT on Apr 9, 2012

Although I couldn't open any video...or even read past page 1~ I totally agree with Mrs. S~ as I just shared on another 2 videos. Sending much respect to Diane S.'s post.

Diane S.

2:55AM PDT on Apr 9, 2012

Rabbit can make precious pets, I have 4, 2 from a shelter the other 2 unfortunately from a breeder. I didn't know any better when got the first 2. I love them to bits but they require daily care. People should only get a rabbit if they are committed. My 4 bunnies are my babies and I will take care of them until they last breath !

Mrs S.

1:28AM PDT on Apr 9, 2012

Unless you have a little garden or whatever for this animal to live in, I frankly dont think you should get a bunny. Keeping it in a cage for the rest of its life is both cruel and effed up.