March 25, 2016
Timothy D. Easley/AP
Morgan Clements, left, of Morganfield, Ky., examines the ear of Brodie, being held by Rachel Knight of Boston, Mass., in the rabbit exhibit of the Kentucky State Fair, Friday, Aug. 15, 2014, in Louisville, Ky.
Buying a real live bunny as an Easter present for yourself or a loved one might seem like a fine idea, but animal experts and advocates are strongly urging against it.
The hashtag #MakeMineChocolate is helping to spread the message on banning bunny buying as a holiday gift.
One reason people advocate against it is that many who make these impulse purchases don't consider the full implications and responsibilities that come with owning and caring for an animal that lives well beyond the holiday (try 8 to 12 years, according to the House Rabbit Society).
This lack of information can lead to an uptick in rabbits being dropped off at rescue organizations in the weeks and months following Easter, or worse, domestic animals being left in the wilderness with little chance of survival, One Green Planet explains.
One Green Planet shares a list of five reasons why not to buy a rabbit as an Easter gift, touching on the above while also adding alternative ideas to indulge in animal cuteness without the commitment or consequences.
"Go and visit an animal sanctuary as a special Easter trip with your family," it notes, or "take a trip to your local shelter and ask a volunteer for a tour."
Read more at One Green Planet.
