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The Right Pet for You
TD Yandt
Spring is sprung
The grass is riz
I wonder where
The birdies is

-- Garfield the cat

As Garfield puts it, spring is sprung. Some parents consider getting their children a pet rabbit for Spring. They are small, inexpensive, and couldn't possibly be difficult to keep...could they? Here are some things to consider before running down to your neighborhood pet store to pick out the cutest one.

Rabbits are not the best choice for many families. They seem docile and calm as they sit munching on fresh garden vegetables. But keep in mind, rabbits are prey animals with strong instincts. Even a well-intentioned youngster may find himself the recipient of a powerful kick. Large hind legs can deliver a serious punch, and their nails can leave a lasting scar that's both physical and mental on a young child. That said, rabbits can make a wonderful companion for a quiet, older child.

All rabbits tend to be on the nervous side; some species are more flighty than others. If you are looking into a rabbit for your older child, 12 and up, consider Lops or Dwarfs. These two species tend to be better companions with steadier personalities.

Other important considerations are cost, space, and the time you and your child will have to spend with a new pet. Rabbits need to have space to run and stretch their legs on a daily basis. They cannot live happily confined to a small two- or three-foot plastic-bottomed cage. The best option is to pick a room in your home for the rabbit. A bathroom for ease of cleaning or your child's room may be your best choices; you can easily keep the rabbit confined to its room using a baby gate.

Rabbits will also need a hutch, a place they can go to hide out and not be disturbed. This can be something as simple as a cardboard box stashed in a quiet corner or as complex as a two-story, custom-built, wooden condo. What is important is that it is dark, clean, secluded, always available, and stocked with a fresh supply of timothy hay.

Another important piece of equipment is your rabbit¹s water bottle. There are several options available. Whichever you choose, make sure it is made of a sturdy plastic, with a non-rusting metal ball tip. This metal ball keeps the water from spilling out while your rabbit is not drinking, but when pushed up the tube it allows a flow of fresh clean water. The size of the bottle is not important, as long as you are filling it with a fresh supply of water at least once a day.

Initial costs can vary anywhere between $50 and $500, depending on what kind of set-up you go with. Rabbits are pretty inexpensive as far as long-term care, and they are typically pretty hardy.

Something else to consider is the sex of your new companion. While males are more widely available and found in most every pet store, they may not be your best choice. Males tend to be very possessive of their person, and will even go so far as to mark that person and their belongings. Males have no qualms about urinating on things and people they view as being their own. Rabbit urine has a strong odor, and it will stain some fabrics. Your best bet is to find a good breeder and to purchase an adult female. Young rabbits can be difficult to sex; getting a young adult is the only way to be sure of what you are getting.

When you have done your research, decided whether or not you have the time, space, and finances to properly provide for a pet, and are sure you are making the right choice, both your future pet and your family will share many years of friendship. A rabbit can make a wonderful addition to the right family, if you research the pet. Although it¹s difficult to resist their cute little furry faces, it¹s important never to purchase any animal on impulse. Doing your research can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration and heartache.

A former pet groomer, TD Yandt is currently working as an artist and animal trainer. Her goal is to positively impact the lives of pets and their people by providing an education on individual species, their proper care, and the use of operant conditioning to enhance the human-animal bond. You can learn more about TD, and her animal family, at www.noselicks.com .

       


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