The ASPCA Proclaims July as Adopt-a-Rescued-Rabbit Month

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Wednesday, 26 June 2002

You're Nobody 'til Some Bunny Loves You!

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and its online adoption partner, Petfinder.com, are celebrating July as the first annual Adopt- -a-Rescued-Rabbit Month. Rabbits are the most popular small mammals kept as pets in American households. Unfortunately, these quiet, affectionate creatures are the third mostly likely animals to be dropped off at the nation's shelters. Tiny bunnies bought as Easter presents or springtime birthday gifts grow up and get cast aside when their novelty wears off. Instead of purchasing a rabbit, the ASPCA encourages Americans to "Make Pet Adoption Your First Option."

"Domestic rabbits are delightful companion animals," says Jacque Schultz, ASPCA Director of Special Projects. "They are inquisitive, intelligent, sociable and often demonstratively affectionate. Well-cared-for indoor rabbits have an average life span of about 7 to 10 years, the same as many breeds of dogs, therefore you are making a long-term commitment." Weighing in at 2 - 20 lbs., a rabbit can be trained to use a litter box and respond to its name. For a person to fully enjoy its playful personality, a bunny needs daily freedom to explore rabbit-proofed areas of the home and time to cuddle up to its human family. While many think of rabbits as children's pets, more and more adult homes are discovering rabbits to be the perfect fit. As crepuscular creatures (most active at dusk and dawn), they are on the same schedule as many working households. And as quiet, light-footed beings, they make excellent neighbors in thin-walled apartments and townhouses.

How do you know if a rabbit is the right pet for you? The following guidelines should help potential owners make a decision that's right for them:

• Rabbits are physically delicate and fragile animals and require specialized veterinary care.


• Rabbits need plenty of out-of-cage exercise time, as well as a cage that allows them to move freely and to stretch out fully.


• Rabbits need a safe exercise area - with ample room to run and jump.


• Recommended exercise time for indoor rabbits is several hours per day.


• Rabbits eat grass hay, commercial rabbit pellets and fresh, dark green vegetables.


• Domestic rabbits should be kept inside, rather than in an outdoor hutch. Rabbits are highly social animals and should have plenty of interaction with family members.

For more information, or to contact American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, see their website at: www.aspca.org