February is Adopt A Rescued Rabbit Month
When you think of animals in shelters waiting for new homes, what types of animals do you picture? Most people would reply that they picture cats and dogs. While cats and dogs are unfortunately very common in shelters and rescues across the globe, in the United States rabbits are the third most commonly surrendered animals in shelters. Popular as pets, many people may not even realize that there are thousands of rabbits in shelters and rescues across the country who are waiting for loving new homes. That's why rabbit shelters and rescues have declared the month of February to be Adopt a Rescued Rabbit Month. Their aim is to education potential new owners about these amazing animals as well as to promote adoption.
Rabbits can make amazing pets for the right people. They are cute, intelligent, and social. However it's important to do your research before bringing home a new fuzzy friend. Rabbits are often times though of as low maintenance, cheap, easy to manage pets. However these sometimes demanding animals require a lot of time and specialized care. They can also be expensive to own, especially since they require regular vet care the same way a dog or cat would. Rabbits are often times not the cuddly pets they are perceived to be, upsetting new owners who were never exactly sure what to expect from their new addition.
The numbers of rabbits purchased from pet stores and breeders usually skyrockets around Easter time. As a symbol for this spring holiday, they are often times given as gifts to young children who may not yet be old enough to care for a pet on their own. Unfortunately many of these outcast "Easter bunnies" will find their way into shelters and rabbit rescues as their new owners become sick of them or decide that they aren't the right pet for them. The more rabbits that get adopted before Easter time, the more room shelters will have after Easter to provide for these ex-Easter bunnies.
If you think a rabbit might be the right pet for you, do your research and opt to adopt! There are many benefits to adoption, including getting an animal that will most likely already be spayed/neutered, will have already been checked over by a vet, and, if adopting an adult rabbit, will already have a developed personality. Not to mention that you'll be saving a life! Worried that you work long hours and will have to leave your new pet at home? Consider adopting a bonded pair of rabbits! Rabbits are highly social and can bond very strongly with other rabbits. Having a buddy around to snuggle and play with will keep your rabbit from getting bored and lonely while you're away from home.
When you're ready to look for adoptable rabbits in your area, consider searching for your new family member on Petfinder.com or research any potential rabbit rescues in your area. You'll be saving a life, and if cared for properly your new rabbit will reward you with many years of entertainment and love.
