Spring is here! Well, at least on paper because, as I write this, we expect a major snow storm to hit Colorado. But, spring is right around the corner as is Easter. Many of us have fond memories of Easter baskets, Easter bonnets, egg hunts, and lots of candy. But, Easter can be a dreadful time of year for baby bunnies and chicks given as holiday gifts, with some dyed vibrant colors to make them more marketable. 

Why? The most obvious reason is that small children are not equipped to care for baby animals. Those tiny bones easily break, and if a large percentage of people aren’t prepared to address injured or ill dogs and cats, will they be prepared to provide care for a “holiday gift”? And, what happens when those adorable babies grow up and aren’t quite so cute?

According to numerous sources including CBS News, rabbits are the third most surrendered animal and the third most euthanized. While they can make wonderful companions, they are not smaller versions of cats or dogs, and require special knowledge of their behaviors, healthcare needs, and habitats. And, the road for baby chicks can be even rougher as they grow into chickens or roosters, animals not typically thought of us as cute house pets. 

We’re all for celebrating anything after a very long and dismal year, but please be mindful that all animals are a lifelong commitment and a big responsibility. Enjoy the holiday, but consider giving a stuffed animal or a chocolate one to young children, and letting older kids volunteer with rescues and shelters in order to foster a love for all animals.