Animal Update: Easter And Live Animals

(KCBS) - Every year the San Francisco SPCA warns people that the only bunnies and chicks they should bring home at Easter are chocolate ones! What's the reason for this? Many people don't think ahead to what will happen after the holiday celebrations are over. Baby chicks quickly become full-grown chickens; and chickens are not good household pets.

KCBS' Jeff Bell talks to Dr. Jack Aldridge of the SF SPCA:

Rabbits make good pets. But they need much more care and attention than many people realize. The popular belief that rabbits are ideal "starter" pets for youngsters is just plain wrong.

In fact, rabbits and small children are not a good match. Children like a pet they can cuddle and carry. But generally, rabbits are not passive and cuddly. They're ground-loving animals. And they feel frightened and insecure when they're held and restrained. The majority of children lose interest when they realize a bunny can't be handled like a stuffed toy. Then the rabbit ends up neglected or abandoned.

Some other facts about rabbits that people should know are:
• Rabbits can be wonderful pets, but there are some basics that people should know before adopting.
• An indoor rabbit can live an average of 7 – 10 years.
• They're not low maintenance - They need plenty of space and exercise, regular socialization and a proper diet.
• If you do think you can give a rabbit the time and care it needs, please don't buy one -adopt from your local shelter like Animal Care and Control or a rescue group like Save A Bunny.

Animal Update airs on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM on Sundays at 1:35 p.m., 3:35 p.m., and 9:21 p.m.

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