Bunnies, Chicks, and Ducklings, Oh My!

Easter is hopping our way with the speed of light...or should I say, the speed of a rabbit? It's a holiday that makes us think about all things Spring, and also never fails to entice legions of people into buying a live bunny (or duckling, or chick) as an Easter gift. This unfortunate practice has resulted in two things: the abandonment of thousands of animals over the years, and the death of many others due to neglect or abuse.

Yes, these little critters are cute, warm, and cuddly. But they are also creatures with plenty of needs that must be satisfied in order for them to thrive. Once the fun and excitement of Easter is over, who's going to take on the responsiblity of that adorable little animal?

Shelters everywhere will be forever grateful if you take this pledge: Never bring a live animal into your family until you've educated yourself on it's needs, and are willing to make it a lifetime commitment.

So this Easter, buy the kiddos colorful eggs, jelly beans, cute outfits, a soft stuffed critter, or a yummy chocolate one. They'll be happy, and so will you. 

Oh, and while we're on the topic, remember this little known fact. I highly recommend the purchase of chocolate bunnies, because chocolate bunny ears belong to adults. At least that's what I told my kids--and who are they to doubt me?

Many thanks to Mr. Pip for the reminder badge posted above, and feel free to post it on your blog. It speaks volumes!

Easter Gifts

A popular Easter gift for children in my youth was a bunny, chick, or duckling...yes, a live one. What animal loving child wouldn't be thrilled to receive a cuddly bunny or charming chick of their own? Of course my parents didn't indulge me, as much as I asked for one. In retrospect, I understand how wise they were.

The purchase of a live bunny, duckling, or chick for a child's gift nearly always resulted in the death or abandonment of the animal. What seemed like a good idea quickly became an annoying slice of reality. No one was fully prepared for the extent and type of care required or the delicacy of small fragile bodies in tightly clenched hands. Thus the impulse gift swiftly became a fatality, or simply a nuisance.

Luckily, through zealous education efforts, live animals as part of an Easter morning celebration are now seldom seen.

And I'm grateful that bunnies, chicks, and ducklings come to us another way these days. As a chocolate treat!