The right pet for you

To the Editor:

Big ears, wiggly nose, cotton tail — who can resist a cute bunny rabbit?
But after cats and dogs, rabbits are the species most often surrendered to animal shelters, mainly because people buy them as babies but aren’t prepared for the commitment involved for their long term care. Others are simply released into backyards by people who mistakenly believe they will be able to fend for themselves, but domestic rabbits cannot survive on their own in the outdoors like wild rabbits.
Keeping a bunny in a hutch outside is considered neglect, as is relegating a bunny to the basement or the garage. Like all animals, rabbits require safe and gentle handling and regular interaction with people to stay socialized and happy. Chickens also need dedicated, consistent care and far too many of them end up in shelters and rescues.
There is information on www.humanesociety.org that can help you determine whether a rabbit or a chicken is the right pet for you. If you feel you and your family are ready for the responsibility visit www.TheShelterPetProject.org or www.PetFinder.com to find rabbits, chickens and other pets already in local shelters and rescues waiting for a wonderful new home like yours.

MELISSA LAYLA LONGO

© 2000, Newspaper Media Group