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Celebrate a Cruelty-Free Easter

March 18, 2008 - Every year, a few months post-Easter, we start fielding rabbit and chicken calls. The same story is repeated - a family or school buys a cute baby rabbit or chick only to lose interest when the animal gets larger (or, in the case of chickens turns out to be a rooster). Most of these animals end up in shelters where they will be killed. This doesn't need to happen. There are myriad alternatives to buying living, sentient beings and we'll share them with you. If you are set on getting a rabbit or chicken, we hope you will not only do your research but consider adoption.

Rabbits and Chickens as Companions

It's a common misconception that rabbits make good companions for small children. As a prey species, rabbits generally find being handled or held a scary experience. They are sensitive to the hyperactivity of children and do best in a home with older children or adults.

Chicks are very fragile and should be handled gently and with care. They are sensitive to the weather and require special food and housing. Few veterinarians are bird-savvy, so treating medical conditions can be difficult and costly.

If you feel that you can provide a loving, permanent home to a rabbit or chicken for the next 8-12 years, please adopt (and wait until well after Easter). Rabbits and chickens do not belong in cages and require space to thrive. Some laws prohibit poultry in city areas and most prohibit roosters.

Learn more:

House Rabbit Society
Save-A-Bunny
Chicks as Easter Gifts

Check out your local shelter for adoption information. Many shelters have rabbits and birds needing permanent, loving homes.

Chocolatize that Bunny

Not literally, of course. Everyone loves chocolate (or they should). Give a tasty gift of vegan chocolates this Easter.

Vegan Chocolate:

Rose City Chocolatier
Allison's Gourmet
Chocolate Decadence

No Egg-You

Make Easter extra fun for the kids in your life by having a plastic-egg hunt, instead of a real egg hunt. Fill plastic eggs with toys or chocolate for an exciting "hunting" expedition.

Just Stuff It

Stuffed animals don't poop or pee. They don't scratch or bite. They generally don't run away or decide they want to live with the neighbors. Teddy bears make for a much better child's companion than a rabbit or chicken.