Spring Flings: Fall in Love with a New Best Friend This International Rabbit Day! Posted on September 27, 2024 Miss Tilly is looking for a new home at the RSPCA NSW Hunter Shelter Spring is often considered the perfect season for new beginnings, such as welcoming a new family member into your home. With International Rabbit Day will taking place on the 28th of September, there’s never been a better time to discuss why rabbits make excellent pets and why every household should consider welcoming an adorable companion into their life. Rabbits are great companions and make excellent additions to any family, especially for those in smaller dwellings or without a large backyard. Rabbits are quiet animals, making them suitable for homes where noise might be an issue and they have generous lifespans, offering long-term companionship of up to 10 years or more with proper care. They are also great for families who are out and about during the day at work or school and home during the morning or evening, as Rabbits are crepuscular creatures. This means that they tend to be most active around dusk and dawn, so you’ll have plenty of time to spend with your pet before you head out for the day and after you return home. There are a variety of different breeds that can be kept as pets, such as Netherland Dwarfs, Lops and fluffy Angoras. Each have their own distinctive qualities and quirky personalities, meaning there’s a rabbit to suit any family. “Despite their small stature, pocket pets are lovely pets that can be great companions,” says RSPCA Chief Veterinarian, Liz Arnott. “It is important to remember, however, that rabbits require the same level of love, attention and care as any other pet, including vet trips and vaccinations.” If you’ve never thought about keeping a rabbit before, there are a few things to learn before bringing one home. “Rabbits need a secure enclosure that is protected from sun and rain. The enclosure needs to be large enough for them to hop around in and high enough for them to be able to stand with their ears up. They also need time outside of their enclosures, just like any other animal, for exercise and quality time with their family.,” “Rabbits are also sensitive to temperature extremes, so they will need to come inside when it’s very warm or very cool out to protect their health,” “Though each personality is different, rabbits do generally like to remain at ground level, so being comfortable spending time with your rabbit without needing to pick them up or hug them is the best kind of company and friendship for them.” advises Arnott. A rabbit’s diet consists of mostly hay, which they need to have an abundant supply of at all times. Aside from this, they love lush leafy greens and fruit or veggies such as carrots and apples, which they can enjoy in small amounts as a delicious treat. Of course, like any animal, they also need access to fresh water daily. Morrigan, also at the Hunter shelter, is patiently waiting for her forever family. Bunnies are very smart creatures who can learn tricks such as spins and high-fives. They can even be trained to use a little box, just like cats. They are also big fans of bath time, but not like you’d expect. Rabbits clean themselves with their paws and tongues in a similar manner to cats, which is not only adorable but also ensures they are always looking their best. Rabbits are also very social animals who often prefer to live with friend. It’s best to do your research on bunny-bonding to make sure your new pets will have the best chance of getting along, as it’s not as easy as just putting two rabbits together. If you have been thinking about adding a four-legged friend to your family, consider a rabbit! If you have room in your home and heart for a soft, sweet and curious creature, please contact your local RSPCA NSW shelter or visit the RSPCA NSW website.
