Don’t buy one in a shop. Caring breeders don’t sell
to pet shops, so you may not be getting a baby that has been carefully prepared
for life as a pet. Never buy on the internet – you don’t know where
it’s come from. Go to a rescue centre. About 33,000 bunnies need new homes
every year in the UK. At shelters you can get an adult rabbit. They always have
adults (best for older children) and will also have babies at regular intervals.
A good rescue centre will help you choose a compatible pair of rabbits, or introduce
a new rabbit to your existing one. Children who are taken to a rescue centre
are usually thrilled and excited to help animal welfare and they learn that
a rabbit is not a commodity to be bought over the counter. Consult www.rabbitrehome.org.uk
for UK rescues. A good rescue will tell you of any problems.
WHAT BREED SHOULD I BUY?
Pet shops often don’t know what breeds they are selling or, if they do
know, don’t know how big the rabbit will be. Avoid fluffy little babies
which grow into long haired rabbits that need 10 minutes grooming daily. English
lops have huge ears that trail on the ground and often get injured. Giant breeds
need giant houses and runs, which are very costly. Do some research on the internet
before you decide. Never buy on impulse or out of pity. Some breeders don’t
socialise their babies so always ask if you are buying from a breeder.