~Do I have the time? Rabbits are very social, loving creatures and need to have a bare minimum of an hour a day with their Human companion. They need to interact with their caretaker to stay loving and friendly.
~Do I have the money? It's true, rabbits are much cheaper then a dog or cat, but the overall start up cost can be well over $200. The monthly costs can be anywhere around $20 to $50.
~Do I have the room? If you live in an apartment, you won't be able to have an outdoor rabbit. However, if the apartment is too small for a bunny cage and you don't have room for a bunny to get out its ever-increasing energy, you might not be able to buy a rabbit.
~Am I allowed to have a rabbit? Are you a teenager that can't have a bunny because of your parents? Or do you live in an apartment and pets aren't allowed?
~Do I travel often for work or to visit family? If yes, you'll need to find a bunny sitter if you can't bring your bunny with you. Someone who knows how to take good care of a bunny will take time to find; most people do not know that rabbits have special needs.
~Is there anyone in the family that doesn't want a rabbit? Getting a rabbit should be the whole family's decision. You should talk it over for months before you buy a bunny, with even the smallest member in the family. If you are wanting a rabbit for your child, please don't put the entire responsibility of raising the rabbit on their shoulders. Rabbits aren't a very good child's pet; they are a much better family pet.
~Is there anyone in the family allergic to rabbits or hay? Rabbits cannot survive without hay. So if anyone in the home has serious hay fever, a rabbit is not the right pet for you.
~Would my other pets prevent me from getting a rabbit? If you have dogs and cats and don't want to sacrifice time with them you shouldn't get a bunny. If your dog chases after squirrels and your cat leaves you "treasures" in the form of dead mice on your doorstep, either introduce these guys VERY slowly or think again about getting a bunny.
~Is there any situation in which I would need to get rid of the rabbit? We understand, life does happen and sometimes family can get in the way of our pets. We sometimes have to give them up. But if there is a LONG list in which the rabbit is the first to go (and some of these are the rabbit's fault), maybe you shouldn't get a rabbit.
~Will I take the rabbit to the vet for emergencies? Rabbits do not need to be taken to the vet for regular check ups or shots, but something small like a rabbit not eating for 24 hours can take the rabbit downhill very quickly.
~Will I spay/neuter my rabbit? Your pet rabbit will lead a healthy, playful and carefree life if you spay or neuter it. It may be much better behaved, and stink less as well.
If you answered all these questions honestly and are still really wanting a bunny, consider one closely. A rabbit is not a pet that should be bought as a spur-of-the-moment, gotta-have-it-now Easter present.
If you and the whole family are ready for and really, really want a bunny, now is the time to look into one and email me. ;)