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ACTIVISM
For the rabbit enthusiast who desires to preserve, protect, and promote our furry friends, The Brainy Bunny offers a few ideas on how to get involved:
SUPPORT A RABBIT RESCUE ORGANIZATION. Rabbits are among the most frequently mistreated and abandoned pets. It is quite likely that your hometown has a local humane society, wildlife organization, or House Rabbit Society chapter that cares for abandoned rabbits and would appreciate a helping hand or a foster home. Consider also bringing fresh vegetables and hay to your local rabbit rescue organization.
TAKE A STAND AGAINST THE EASTER BUNNY FRENZY. Easter is a season of celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, not the prime time for purchasing a bunny as a pet for a young child. Sadly, thousands of bunnies purchased during the Easter season are abandoned each year by careless parents who do not understand the commitment involved in caring for a rabbit (See the articles featured in the "News" section on rabbit abandonment and the recommended "Rabbits at Easter" article from the House Rabbit Society. This hyperlinked article also provides flyers that can be printed and distributed in your local community to help spread the truth about Easter and bunnies.)
JOIN OR START AN ORGANIZATION FOR RABBIT ENTHUSIASTS. For example, the House Rabbit Society publishes its own journal, sponsors a national rabbit veterinary conference as well as local chapter events, provides members with discounts on rabbit-related products, and provides shelter and care to abandoned rabbits across the United States. The annual membership fee is $18.
WRITE AN ADVOCACY LETTER TO YOUR LOCAL PET STORE TO INCREASE THEIR AWARENESS OF RABBIT CRUELTY. Many pet stores are irresponsible in selling rabbits to anyone who is willing to pay the price. Sadly, there are individuals who purchase rabbits from pet stores to feed live to their pet snakes, dogs and reptiles; to kill for their fur; or to sell at a profit to a laboratory. Be sure to let your pet store know that you want them to take responsibility in ensuring that rabbits are sold only for the purposes of being pets, if at all. In addition, many pet stores buy immature rabbits from breeders and sell them without understanding the unique needs of young rabbits. Make your pet store aware that they should only purchase rabbits that are mature enough to handle life on their own, or that they should not sell rabbits at all. There are plenty of adoptable rabbits at rabbit rescue shelters such that it is unnecessary for pet stores to sell rabbits for profit.
SHOP AT A BUNNY-FRIENDLY BUSINESS. If you need a bunny-related item, please consider shopping at Bunny Heaven, Bunny Bytes or Thumper's Hollow. These businesses donate a portion of their profits to worthy rabbit rescue organizations and are committed to promoting rabbit welfare in general. These online stores contain a plethora of quality items for your house rabbit as well as adorable bunny-related housewares, clothing, accessories and more!
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