MSPCA Pet of the Week: Rabbits!

The Boston MSPCA Animal Care and Adoption Center is open Tuesday through Sunday; from 2 to 7 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, and 1 to 5 p.m. all other days. Adoption rates vary, but you can find all adoption information and policies here. Not able to adopt? The MSPCA always needs volunteers, foster families and donations!

This week's "pet" of the week are the Rabbits who are available at the MSPCA, in honor of Easter!

Now, don't get any ideas -- rabbits aren't just novelty holiday pets! Like any other animal, they are a responsibility, and are looking for forever homes. But how can you not talk about bunnies on Easter weekend? This holiday weekend, many parents and loved ones will give a bunny as a pet -- and that rabbit will end up in shelters like the MSPCA Animal Care and Adoption Center weeks to months later, when the cuteness of the gift wears off. Be one of the good guys, and make a smart, informed choice when adopting a rabbit. If cats and dogs aren't up your alley, a rabbit is a great option for a pet.

The important thing to know about rabbits is that, just like cats and dogs, they come with varying personalities, and selecting the right one for your temperament and lifestyle is essential. Not all bunnies like to be held and not all of them are good with children (and most aren't good with young children). They also come in different breeds and sizes, so you can pick out one that suits your housing and space situation. On the whole, they require less attention than, say, a dog, but the impression that rabbits are "low maintenance" is false. Like any animal, rabbits need to be socialized regularly, and thrive best if let out out of their cage to roam freely for at least an hour a day.

Rabbits require plenty of space and like a cat's litter box, their cages should be tended to daily, and thoroughly cleaned once a week. Having one room in your house that is "rabbit proofed," is essential! Similar to some dog breeds, rabbits can live to or past ten years of age. There's a great guide with more information here

All MSPCA Adoption Center rabbits come with an adoption fee of $75, which covers spay/neuter and a carrier. Please come prepared to show photo i.d. and proof of either home ownership, or pets allowed on your lease. For more information on the adoption process, please click here.

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