This spring, thousands of unwanted bunnies will fill America’s local animal shelters, humane societies and sometimes—far worse—dumpsters. How so?

Every Easter, well-meaning but uninformed individuals cave to the cuteness temptation and buy baby bunnies for Easter. Most often these bunnies are given as gifts to young children, while other baby rabbits serve as novelty flair for an Easter party or special event. After the adorableness has worn off, however, these new pets are no longer wanted or needed.

According to the ASPCA, rabbits are the third most-euthanized animals in U.S. shelters after cats and dogs. Unless you’re in it for the long haul and know how to take care of one, please, don’t put a live bunny in your Easter basket! Leave little Peter Cottontail be . . .

Under the Nile’s stuffed bunny is a better choice this Easter.

Posted on March 4th, 2008 by Olivia Zaleski