Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You’ll Need:
- Rabbit Bottle Waterers
- Rabbit Cages
- Rabbit Feeds
- Rabbit Pellets
- Rabbit Salt Spools
- Rabbit Treats
- Rabbit Vitamins
Step1
Consider giving a gift certificate for a rabbit and letting the new owner pick out his or her own bunny.
Step2
Visit your local animal shelter (if you opt against the certificate). Many unwanted rabbits are abandoned at shelters each year, especially following Easter. Even if the shelter doesn't have a rabbit available, it can often locate bunnies who need homes.
Step3
Consider what type of rabbit the recipient would like. If he or she wants a house pet, avoid hyperactive breeds such as English spots. Choose a more docile variety, such as New Zealand or Dutch.
Step4
Look for clear eyes and a wet nose when selecting the animal.
Step5
Avoid buying a bunny that is lethargic, has droopy ears or doesn't pay attention to your voice when you talk.
Comments
Anonymous said
on 9/23/2006 Rabbits take a ton of work, and if you dump a rabbit on someone who can't handle the responsibility, you're dooming that rabbit to euthanizing or a life in a shelter. Don't be the reason rabbits are filling shelters and rescues.
Anonymous said
on 8/8/2006 Rabbits seem cute and cuddly, and usually are, but sometimes (just like us) they can throw fits. Be sure that you are ready to give your new bunny the proper care and attention it needs before buying it.
Anonymous said
on 8/8/2006 Spaying or neutering is an absolute must for rabbits. Bad habits can be alleviated by spaying or neutering. Fixed bunnies are easier to litterbox train and easier to socialize. Shelter rabbits are usual fixed before they are adopted out to families.
Anonymous said
on 8/8/2006 Most shelters spay or neuter rabbits before adopting them out. Oregon Humane Society adopts pet rabbits for $25. Vets change approx. $50 for a male and $100 for a female. So, a shelter rabbit is an excellent value.
Anonymous said
on 11/22/2005 Be ready to give a house bunny the care and love it needs. Never give a rabbit as a gift. You don't know if the recipient will want to spend all the effort and time a bunny requires. But, if you choose a rabbit as your pet, be sure to have your house bunny-proofed before you bring it home (lots of chew-things, no toxic plants, and no electrical cords lying out for the bunny to bite down and shock him/herself). Baby gates are useful to block off dangerous rooms. Also, check out the vets in your area and get one that is used to exotic pets. Some vets don't know how to properly treat bunnies.