Happy Easter!!!

With Easter just a hop, skip, and jump away, many parents are planning wonderful surprises for their children’s Easter basket.   Aside from candy and toys, live animals (such as chicks, ducklings, and rabbits) occasionally end up as Easter gifts.  In too many cases, once the novelty wears off, so does the interest in being a pet-owner.   The pet becomes neglected, forgotten, or dumped off at an animal shelter.

Please keep in mind that a super cute baby duckling like this…

Yay!  Happy Easter!!!

Grows up to be this…

AFLAAAAAK!

Rabbits do make great pets, as do some domestic fowl.  But pets are a lifetime commitment, not a holiday whim.  They require thought, planning, and a lot of attention.  If you are seriously considering adding these pets to your family, research the best way to care for these animals.  Also learn about the animal's behavior, particularly when they reach maturation.    

Research potential pets before
you decide to add them to your family!

What kind of care does a chick need? Chicks need warmth from a heating lamp, chick starter ration, and a clean cage. Chicks need fresh water in a special water dispenser so they do not fall in or get wet.  As they grow up, they will need to live outside.  And depending if you have roosters or hens, there is a chance they might not be as social or as friendly as you would hope. 

What kind of care does a rabbit need? Bunnies need a large cage.  Even if they are going to be loose in the house, a cage is a good idea for occasional use. They need a litter box, rabbit food, and chew things. They also need proper care and attention, otherwise they may suffer from boredom. You can even have rabbits spayed and neutered!  Many Easter rabbits are abandoned, or surrendered to an animal shelter in a few months after being purchased.  

I actually have a pair of those bunny slippers.
No joke, I seriously do.  

Again, please research these animals’ behaviors and needs, and then decide if this pet is right for your family.   You may even visit petting zoos, and see how well they behave with your children.