Springtime and the Easter holiday is almost here so I would like to remind people not to buy baby rabbits that are sold this time of year.
There are several reasons I say this.
Sometime rabbits are purchased as an impulse buy because they are cute and represent Easter.
Sadly, when the grow larger or people become tired of taking care of them, they are released into the wild.
Domestic rabbits are not meant to live in the wild and do not have the same natural instincts as native or wild rabbits.
They have a difficult life in the wild and are often killed by coyotes and other predators.
Many rabbits are also released in neighborhoods and the wild because animal rescue shelters are frequently at full capacity and sometimes the ones they already have are difficult to get adopted.
Also, if rabbits are kept, they are often housed in cages or pens that are too small for them with unsuitable food and water.
Rabbits can make wonderful pets if they are cared for properly as any pet should be.
They are intelligent, playful and can be affectionate.
If you decide that you would like to have a rabbit at a pet, please go to the library or online and research how to care for them first and then visit a rescue facility to adopt one.
Anita Shearer
Sequim