Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/10-reasons-to-adopt-a-rabbit/
Rabbits are often given as gifts for Easter and then abandoned shortly after when the novelty has worn off. They are the third most abandoned pet after cats and dogs.
Some domestic rabbits are released into the wild when they are no longer wanted, which is a death sentence. Countless more are brought to shelters and overlooked by adopters.
But they make wonderful pets.
February is Adopt a Rescued Rabbit Month and a great time to learn more about these adorable and often misunderstood animals. Read on to see if they would be a great addition to your family.
10 Reasons To Adopt A Rabbit
Affectionate
Rabbits are loving and social animals. While they are not a fan of being picked up, they do enjoy interacting with humans through play, petting, and nuzzling. Rabbits can take a few weeks to bond with their humans, but it is worth the wait.
Longevity
The average lifespan of a domestic rabbit is 8 to 12 years. Aside from genetics, the quality of care also plays a role in how long a rabbit will live.
Independent
Similar to cats, rabbits enjoy interacting with people, but they enjoy their independence as well. Each rabbit should be allowed to engage with humans as much or as little as they want.
Quiet
There’s no barking or meowing with these furry companions. Their small size and the fact that they make no noise makes them great apartment pets. However, they do need to be supervised as they will chew on things they shouldn’t, including power cords.
Learn Things Quickly
They are fast learners when food is involved. Always use positive reinforcement to train a rabbit and be patient.
Rabbits can learn to use a litter box, hop through an agility course, and do tricks like beg and spin.
Have Big Personalities
Just like cats and dogs, rabbits can be playful, silly, and have unique personalities. House Rabbit Society (HRS), a non-profit rabbit rescue and education organization, states, “Many rabbits have BIG personalities. They run the gamut — some are easygoing and relaxed, some are active and demand attention, some are affectionate and engaged, some are fearful and territorial.”
Those Ears…
Aside from being absolutely adorable, those big ears can tell you how your bunny is feeling. Pay close attention to the position of your rabbit’s ears.
According to the RSPCA, “If they’re close together, facing upwards and pointing outwards, your rabbit is likely to be relaxed and happy. If they’re worried, their ears will be flattened against their back.”
Reduce Stress
Petting a fluffy bunny or watching them munch on lettuce instantly reduces stress in humans.
In addition to the joy they bring to our lives, rabbits can help lower blood pressure and reduce anxiety in a matter of minutes just by being their adorable selves.
No Walking Required
For people with busy schedules with little time to walk a pet, rabbits are a great choice. They love to roam freely and can be trained to use a litter box like a cat.
Save Lives
Sadly, rabbits are the third most euthanized animal in shelters due to lack of adopters. By choosing to adopt you will save the life of not one but two rabbits – the one you adopt and the one that is rescued thanks to the open space.
There are over 5,000 rescue rabbits on Petfinder waiting to find a loving home.
Conclusion
HRS provides rabbit owners with tips on how to train, care, and feed their beloved pet. It is a great resource for rabbit owners and those considering adopting. Learn more here.
As always, adopt don’t shop!
Additional Resources
Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog
