Every year Easter is celebrated and it’s important to remind the public that it is never recommended giving a pet as a gift.
The commitment of pet ownership needs to be thoroughly considered and the pet owner must understand they will be responsible for that pet for the entirety of its life. The Center for Pet Safety has put together information about pets for anyone considering them as an Easter gift and also Easter pet safety tips for those with pets.
Bunnies make wonderful pets, but we suggest restraint from the impulse buy of baby bunnies at Easter. The same goes for baby chicks and ducks. Every year rescue agencies are inundated with bunnies, chicks and ducks once the novelty wears off – and the responsibility of pet ownership sets in.
Bunnies are affectionate and can be house-trained and litter box trained. The downside of bunnies is that they are crepuscular (most active at dusk and dawn) and can negatively impact your sleep. They have also been known to chew almost anything in your home when your back is turned – with electrical cords being one of the most dangerous items. Additionally, it is very important to have your vet spay/neuter your bunny before it becomes sexually mature. A potential pet owner should have a complete understanding of the management requirements of having a rabbit as a house pet prior to adding one to the family.
Chick and Ducks
Chickens and Ducks, while adorable when they are newly hatched, are not house pets and have special housing needs. According to the Department of Agriculture (1), every poultry premises must register with the Department of Agriculture to ensure adequate disease control in the case of an outbreak.
Remember, pet ownership requires a long-term commitment and should not be taken lightly. Not all animals are suitable as companion animals. Center for Pet Safety suggests pet owners complete thorough research before adding any pet to your household.
Other Easter Pet Safety Tips
Chocolate
Center for Pet Safety provides a year-round warning on chocolates for pets. Chocolate is simply a part of the American culture, and while we adore it, it can be toxic for our pets. During Easter, chocolate bunnies and chocolate-coated cream eggs abound. They are very tempting for our pets. Please remember to keep all chocolate candies out of the reach of your pets.
Xylitol
Do you have diet Jelly Beans? Reduced calorie treats? If so, check the ingredients and look for Xylitol. Xylitol is highly toxic to your pets – and can be found in reduced calorie candies (gums/mints), and even baked goods. Check the label carefully before treating your pet with any product that says “reduced calorie” or “diet”.
Easter Lilies
Easter lilies are beautiful and have a wonderful fragrance that will fill your entire room. While it is tempting to bring these lovely flowers into your home, if you have a cat, you may want to avoid bringing Easter Lilies home. Easter Lilies are highly toxic to felines. Chrysanthemums, tulips and daffodils are also toxic to cats.
CPS Spring Coloring Book – Free Download
To keep your younger family members busy during the holiday, CPS has published a free coloring booklet. Enjoy!
Reference Source (1)
Source Center for Pet Safety