How to Buy Rabbits

Are you planning on buying a pet rabbit? There are several places where you can obtain a rabbit that will make a good pet or show animal.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Phonebook
• Newspaper
• Car

Tips:

1. Buying a rabbit at your local pet store is the most common place to make your purchase. Many larger pet stores offer purebred rabbits that have already been neutered or spayed, that will make great pets. However, getting paper work to verify their heritage is usually impossible.

2. Purchasing a rabbit for competition in rabbit shows should take place through a breeder. When participating in the show circuit, you will need to present a rabbit within the weight, size, color and other prescribed guidelines for the breed. Buying a rabbit from a reputable rabbit breeder is the first step in getting a rabbit that is papered, healthy and up to breed standards.

3. Check your newspaper's local classified ads for rabbits to buy if you're looking for a household pet. Often home raised rabbits are very friendly since they have been hand raised since they were very young. They usually take to their human owners quickly, since they were raised in a home environment, rather than a pet store.

4. Shopping at pet swap meets is another place to buy rabbits. Usually the health and quality of rabbit is not very good at these events, since many of the rabbits, rats, mice and other small mammals are being sold for reptile food. However, these rabbits can still make good pets. Just be aware they may have more health concerns than rabbits from other sources.

5. Call your local humane society or animal shelter if you're looking to buy a rabbit. All types of pets, including rabbits, end up at shelters. If a family member develops an allergy to their pet rabbit, has to move into an apartment that won't allow pets or simply can't properly take care of their rabbit, they may choose to surrender them to a local shelter. Giving the already tame pet another chance at life is another great way to buy a rabbit.

Tips & Warnings

• No matter where you choose to buy a rabbit, always look for a healthy pet. The rabbit should be alert and active. He should have clear, bright eyes. There shouldn't be any discharge coming from his eyes, mouth, ears or bottom. Make sure he is eating and eliminating regularly. He should also have a consistent coat, free of patchy fur loss.
• Be wary of any vendor that won't honor some sort of return policy. Even a home based seller will usually allow you to take the rabbit home to meet other household pets, to make sure they all will get along.