As Easter nears, rescue group encourages responsible rabbit adoption
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — As Easter approaches, animal rescue advocates are warning families to carefully consider the long-term responsibility of owning a rabbit before bringing one home.
Bonnie Mitchell, founder of Coastal Carolina Rabbit Rescue, said the organization often sees an increase in abandoned domestic rabbits in the weeks following the holiday. Many of those animals are believed to have been purchased as Easter gifts.
“We found him about one to three months after Easter, which is typically when we see a spike in people spotting domestic rabbits that have been abandoned in neighborhoods,” Mitchell said, referring to George, one of the rescue’s adoptable rabbits.
Mitchell said a common misconception is that domestic rabbits can survive on their own if released into the wild. In reality, she said, they lack the instincts and physical adaptations needed to survive outdoors.
“Domestic rabbits are not able to survive like wild rabbits can,” Mitchell said. “They are not suited for the elements. Summertime is really detrimental for them.”
She also said some owners may release rabbits after realizing they are not easy to care for. Rabbits require space to move beyond traditional cages, specialized diets and veterinary care, and a long-term commitment.
Mitchell says rabbits can live eight to 12 years, and in some cases up to 16 years. Because of that, she encourages families to consider alternatives, such as stuffed animals or chocolate treats, before deciding to adopt a live animal for Easter.
For those still interested in adopting, she said it is important to research proper care and understand the responsibilities involved.
Coastal Carolina Rabbit Rescue will host a community event on Easter Monday, April 6, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Petco on South College Road in Wilmington. Attendees can meet adoptable rabbits, speak with volunteers and learn more about rabbit care. The event will also include grooming services and opportunities to connect rabbits with potential companions.
You can learn more about Coastal Carolina Rabbit Rescue here.
