February 22, 2008

Shelter is hopping with rabbits

February is ‘Adopt a Rabbit Month’ at Humane Society Silicon Valley (HSSV), and the shelter is hopping with a variety of bunnies.

“Rabbits make great house pets,” says Beth Ward, vice president of animal and customer care for HSSV. “When people learn that rabbits can be litter-box trained like a cat, they’re amazed,” Ward says.

HSSV has been working with Bay Area rabbit rescue groups like the Rabbit Haven and the House Rabbit Society to educate the public about rabbits. During the last few months, the Humane Society has seen larger numbers of rabbits than usual coming into the shelter. Part of the problem is simply that owners don’t spay or neuter their rabbits and have not been educated on how to properly care for their furry friends.

Ward says one problem is that some owners get tired of having a rabbit as a pet. “Rabbits are intelligent, affectionate, inquisitive individuals but they do not always make ideal pets for children. Most rabbits don’t like to be picked up and carried around,” Ward explains. “Rabbits are most comfortable on the floor sitting or lying next to their human companion. They should not be housed outside in a cage where they become ‘out of sight, out of mind.’”

According to the House Rabbit Society, the ideal “rabbit person” is a quiet, gentle individual eager to know rabbits on their own terms. Children who want to hold and cuddle a bunny for hours are likely to be disappointed. Families with children should ensure that an adult will be the rabbit’s primary caretaker and can make a long-term commitment to the rabbit’s well-being. “We’re actually seeing more adult couples adopting rabbits and that’s a great thing,” Ward says.

All rabbits adopted from HSSV are spayed/neutered, microchipped and behavior and health tested. HSSV is offering 50 percent discounts on all rabbit, cat and dog spay/neuter surgeries during the month of February to encourage the public to sterilize their pets to prevent unwanted litters and help reduce pet overpopulation. “We’re hoping the discounted prices will encourage people to take action,” Ward says.

Throughout the month, female rabbit spays are $62.50 and male rabbit neuters are just $50.00. Appointments can be made by calling (408) 727-3383, ext. 828.

Ward says the Humane Society currently has an amazing variety of breeds, sizes and ages. “If you’re looking for a rabbit as a companion animal, our adoption counselors will work with you to help you find the perfect match,” she says. For more information on rabbits and their care, visit Humane Society Silicon Valley’s Website: http://www.hssv.org/BEHAVIOR/rabbits.htm.