Animal shelters traditionally see an increase in rabbits surrendered after the Easter holiday. The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) encourages people to adopt a rabbit if they are interested in owning one as a pet, but also wants potential new owners to adopt responsibly and know what’s involved.

Rabbits are affectionate, intelligent, quiet companions that make good house pets. Here are some pointers to keep in mind before adoption:

• Bunnies are not good starter pets for young children.
• Rabbit teeth and nails grow continually and require trimming.
• Owners should bunny-proof a room before allowing a rabbit to run around out of the cage. Rabbits can chew on items in the house like electrical cords and wood.
• Rabbits may be trained to use a litter box.
• Rabbits have a long life span and can live 8-12 years with the proper care and diet.
• Owners should understand what foods are acceptable as snacks and what foods to avoid.
• Many people who are allergic to dogs and cats are not allergic to rabbits
• Bunnies need regular affection and attention from their owners.

Consider adopting a long-eared friend from the Humane Society of Utah instead of buying one as an Easter gift. All rabbits available for adoption at HSU are spayed or neutered.

“Rabbits can make great indoor pets,” said Cynthia Alex, HSU volunteer. “However, before someone makes an impulse buy for Easter they need to understand what it takes to own a pet rabbit. Unless a family is willing to adopt, they should consider a chocolate rabbit for the Easter basket.”

The Humane Society of Utah expects to receive more rabbits when the novelty and excitement of buying a bunny wears off after the Easter season.

For more information about the adoption process and to see a list of available rabbits in HSU’s Bunny Bungalows, visit www.utahhumane.org.