Love your bunnies. They look very much loved. If only everyone was as thoughtful when it comes to bunny ownership.

I get so sad when I see the bunnies that end up in our shelter because someone didn't bother to think about what it takes to care for these special creatures. Our shelter houses bunnies, hamsters, rats, mice, guinea pigs, gerbils, etc. The problem is that too many people buy these types of pets on a whim or as a surprise gift, often for young children, with little or no thought given to the special care that each one requires. Pets are not toys, and unlike toys and games pets don't come with instructions. It is the adults responsibility to provide their children with educational materials on how to care for their chosen pet.

Pet's do not make good surprise gifts for children or adults. Often a child's desire to own a rabbit or other small critter is prompted by a friend having gotten one or a new classroom pet. In a short time the child's interest fades and the end result is another neglected and unwanted animal that ends up in the shelter.

These critters, or pocket-pets if you like, make great pets and with proper adult supervision and involvement can be a wonderful way of teaching children a respect for animals that will last a lifetime.

I believe that purchasing any animal "for the kids" so to speak, is a no no. This has been the cause of untold animal suffering. I believe that any aquiring of a pet, preferably by adoption, is a major commitment, and the entire family should be involved in the process. And while a child may be the animal's main caretaker, we as parents must want the animal the animal as well and be prepared to assume the responsibility for its care if and when our child's interest wanes.

Andrew

www.lostpetfoundpet.com